Childhood Injuries Caused by Nonpowder Firearms

Katherine K. Christoffel*, Robert Tanz, Scott Sagerman, Yoon Hahn

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

40 Scopus citations

Abstract

Motivated by four penetrating brain Injuries to children caused by BBs, a study was undertaken to assess the danger posed by nonpowder guns and rifles and evaluate current regulations pertaining to these products. Data from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission indicate that there are many nonpowder firearm injuries, predominantly among males aged 5 to 24 years. Nonpowder firearm injuries are close in prevalence to those caused by powder firearms and include fatalities. More than one fourth of reported nonfatal injuries are to the eye, face, head, or neck. Despite the hazard they pose, nonpowder firearms are regulated loosely, such that young teens can legally purchase and use the products in most jurisdictions. We propose stricter regulations and other means to prevent serious and fatal nonpowder firearm injuries.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)557-561
Number of pages5
JournalAmerican Journal of Diseases of Children
Volume138
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 1984

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health

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