NCJ Number
154770
Date Published
Unknown
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study was conducted to analyze causes of injury in Hawaii and their short-term and long-term consequences using death certificates and medical records as primary data sources.
Abstract
The study focused on injuries resulting from motor vehicle crashes, drowning, burns, and other unintentional injuries. Consideration was also paid to intentional injuries, including suicide and suicide gestures, homicide, domestic abuse, and assault and battery. Findings revealed that the primary cause of injury deaths in Hawaii involved vehicular accidents. Most injury hospitalizations were caused by falls or vehicular accidents, and alcohol was implicated in 21 percent of vehicular injuries. Falls on level ground in the home most often resulted in injury to elderly persons or young children, whereas falls occurring outdoors or from heights more often involved young adults. The most common recreational injuries were caused by water sports, team sports, playground activities, and skateboarding. Suicide, the second leading cause of injury death, primarily resulted from hangings and firearms. Suicide was also the second leading cause of injury hospitalization. The use of nonprescription drugs accounted for the greatest percentage of suicide attempts. In all age groups, firearms were the most commonly used weapons in homicides. Most assault-related hospitalizations were caused by physical beatings. It was determined that medical professionals need to record more detailed information on injury causes so that injuries can be prevented. 17 references and 13 figures