Study Finds 67% Decrease in California Residents Hospitalized for Gunshots
The number of patients treated for gunshot wounds at California hospitals decreased by 67% from 1992 to 2010, according to a new report by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development. The number of such patients decreased from 10,832 in 1992 to 3,575 in 2010, the study found. Study authors attributed the decrease to a decline in crack cocaine usage, a rise in statistic-driven police work and the success of community-based programs that encourage shot gang members at hospitals not to retaliate.
- "Gunshot Hospitalizations Plunge Statewide" (Shinkman, Payers & Providers, 7/18).