Child and Adolescent Injury as a Result of Falls From Buildings and Structures

The incidence, demographic risk factors, & patterns of injury resulting from falls from buildings & structures in areas with & without a legislation based prevention programme were examined. Data for New York City were analyzed. Of 70 adolescents classified as having an intentional fall or jump, 50 were aged 15-18 years & 16, 10-13 years. The majority of cases occurred in households earning incomes of $35,000 or more. Comorbid mental health or alcohol/substance abuse diagnoses were reported in 57 of the cases. Of the 31 suicide attempts where place of injury was recorded, nearly half occurred at home & two-thirds occurred during weekdays. No further analysis was done of the suicide attempts. (31 refs.)