Context.–Violent trauma is recognized as a chronic condition with high rates of recurrence. Few published studies have examined assault as an independent risk factor for subsequent assault, and no population-based studies have been conducted in the United States.
Objective.–To determine the extent to which assaultive injury is a risk factor for subsequent assaultive injury.
Design.–Retrospective cohort study.
Setting and Participants.–A statewide hospital record database and population estimates were used to form two exposure groups from the 1995 population of Missouri. Persons who suffered an assaultive injury formed the exposed group (n=26,873). The remainder of the 1995 Missouri population formed the unexposed group (n@5.3 million).
Main Outcome Measures.–Incidence rates and relative risks for assaultive injury during a 12-month follow-up period.
Results.–Individuals with a prior assaultive injury were 11.6 times more likely to be assaulted within 12 months than those without a prior assaultive injury (95% CI=11.2, 12.1). No significant difference in the risks for subsequent assault between persons treated and released and those hospitalized for their initial injuries was found. The probability of recurrent assault was similar among demographic groups. More than 40% of recurrent assaults occurred within 30 days of the initial assault.
Conclusions.–Prior assault is a strong risk factor for subsequent assault. Hospital-based secondary prevention strategies should be considered important components in community efforts to control violence.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1) Describe the extent to which assault is a risk factor for subsequent assault. 2) Discuss the relationship between demographic factors and the probability of recurrent assault. 3) Discuss the implications recurrent violence has on community efforts to prevent and control violence
Keywords: Violence, Epidemiology
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.