NCJ Number
176934
Journal
American Journal of Preventive Medicine Volume: 15 Issue: 3S Dated: October 1998 Pages: 2-5
Date Published
1998
Length
4 pages
Annotation
In light of progress in the development and implementation of State firearm injury surveillance systems, questions are being raised about the logical progression of these efforts.
Abstract
Firearm injury surveillance is an important component of public health, especially because the prevention focus of the health care system requires monitoring vital signs of the national population and responding appropriately to potential threats. Firearm injury surveillance systems exist in several States, including California, Massachusetts, and Washington. The importance of these systems is considered in the context of gun control policies. The status of firearm injury data collection and the importance of firearm injury surveillance are reviewed. Challenges associated with collecting data on firearm injuries are noted, the issue of mandatory reporting of firearm-related morbidity and mortality is addressed, and suggestions for maximizing the potential of future efforts in firearm injury surveillance are offered. The authors emphasize advancing the capabilities of firearm injury surveillance to a level that will inform practical policy matters is an important next step. 17 references