The Epidemiologic Basis for the Prevention of Firearm Injuries

This article summarizes the epidemiology of firearm injuries & describes the magnitude of firearm injuries, suicides & homicides as public health problems in the United States. The public health approach towards understanding the etiology of firearm injury is reviewed & this approach is used to suggest strategies for prevention. Finally, the authors identify a research agenda for establishing a scientific basis for prevention. (87 refs.)