Firearm-related mortality in Oklahoma, 1985-1989.
To determine the extent of firearms as a cause of mortality, Oklahoma vital statistic records were analyzed. The annual mortality rate in Oklahoma between 1985 and 1989 was 20% higher than the U.S. rate. Firearms were the second leading cause of injury deaths; firearms were the leading cause of injury deaths among blacks and the leading cause of all deaths among blacks 15 to 29 years of age. Ninety-two percent of the firearm-related deaths were intentional; firearms accounted for 70% of suicides and 59% of homicides. The male death rate from firearms was 4.5 times the female death rate. Suicide rates were highest among white males 65 years and older; homicide rates peaked among black males 25 to 34 years of age. Residents of eastern Oklahoma had the highest rates. The magnitude and preventability of firearm-related deaths and injuries demand attention and collaboration from Oklahoma health care providers; public health, mental health, and education officials; and criminal justice professionals.
Archer
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Oklahoma State Department of Health, Injury Epidemiology Division, Oklahoma City 73117-1299.
Makintubee
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Sells
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D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002423:Cause of Death; D005260:Female; D005389:Firearms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009825:Oklahoma / Q000453:epidemiology; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000401:mortality*