Articles tagged with Firearms
After two high-profile mass shootings, California's handgun sales spiked by 53% and 85% in the following weeks. The study found that these spikes were driven by increased concern over personal security, with many individuals motivated to acquire firearms for self-protection.
Following mass shootings, there are sharp increases in handgun acquisitions in California, with significant spikes seen among white and Hispanic persons. Researchers suggest this may lead to substantial increases in firearm ownership.
Research finds high levels of lead exposure at firing ranges, with risks similar between indoor and outdoor ranges. The study recommends reevaluating allowable lead levels, improving education on lead-exposure risks, and finding lead-free substitutes for bullets and primer.
A new study finds gunshot wounds in Miami-Dade County cluster in poor, black neighborhoods, with a fatality rate of 15.4%. The researchers call for urgent community engagement and prevention strategies to reduce firearm violence.
Researchers developed a clinical risk index tool to gauge future firearm violence risk among urban youth, considering peer and partner violence, community exposure, and family influences. The SaFETy score demonstrates superior predictive power, helping emergency physicians identify high-risk individuals and tailor preventative services.
A newly discovered pistol shrimp species has been named Synalpheus pinkfloydi in recognition of Pink Floyd's influence. The bright pink-clawed shrimp creates a loud sonic energy similar to the band's iconic sound.
Research on osteoporosis medications in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) found mixed results regarding benefits and harms. Bisphosphonates may slow BMD loss but effects on fractures and safety are unclear. More research is needed to determine the best options for patients across CKD spectrum.
A recent study by Arizona State University professors found no evidence of the Ferguson effect in Chicago. However, they did discover a strong association between firearms availability and gun violence, supporting Former NYPD Commissioner William Bratton's argument.
A study published in CMAJ found that Canadian-born children and youth are at a higher risk of unintentional gun injury compared to immigrant children and youth. The study identified certain subgroups of immigrants as being at higher risk of assault-related injury, particularly those from Africa and Central America.
A Stanford Medicine study found that gun violence resulted in significant national medical costs, with the government bearing a large share of the burden. The study estimated total hospital costs for firearm-related injuries over a nine-year period and highlighted the need for fact-based research to inform health policy decisions.
A study found that American adults who survive deliberate self-harm are at increased risk of suicide in the following year. Firearm-related self-harm was associated with the highest suicide risk, with males and older, white adults being disproportionately affected.
A recent study published in The Laryngoscope found that substantial noise exposures occur in occupational and recreational settings, with only a small percentage of those exposed wearing recommended hearing protection. Firearms use is a significant contributor to noise exposure, with only 58% of gun owners using hearing protection.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that racial disparities in firearm injuries are more strongly associated with race than neighborhood income levels. The researchers argue that establishing a national database on gun violence incidents is crucial to understanding and addressing this public health problem.
A recent analysis found that Black civilians were over twice as likely to be unarmed when fatally shot by US police in 2015 compared to their white counterparts. The study also revealed that civilians from other minority groups were more likely not to pose a threat to officers or others.
A study published by UC Davis Violence Prevention Research Program found that prior DUIs and other alcohol-related convictions among legal handgun owners in California significantly increased the risk of arrest for violent or firearm-related crimes. The increase was fourfold to fivefold, independent of other risk factors.
Researchers from top universities issue an agenda for action on gun safety, promoting discourse around gun safety rather than control. They propose collaborations with opponents, engaging private industry in evidence-based initiatives to reduce gun-related injuries and deaths.
A new national survey by Northeastern University and Harvard University found that 22% of current US gun owners acquired a gun within the past two years without a background check. The study also revealed significant differences in private firearm sales with and without background checks between states with and without regulations.
The latest collection of articles in JAMA Internal Medicine explores firearm violence in urban areas, with studies focusing on adolescent firearm homicides and social contagion through networks. The research aims to reduce the disproportionate impact of firearm violence on minority populations.
Researchers found that traditional bullets for muzzleloading rifles and black powder rifle cartridges fragment less than modern high-velocity rifle bullets, suggesting a reduced risk of secondary lead poisoning. This could benefit hunters using these styles of guns and scavenging animals that consume game meat.
Researchers found that for every 10-20 instances of temporary gun seizures, one suicide was prevented. The study suggests that risk-based gun removal laws could help identify people at increased risk of violence but without a history of violence.
The JAMA Internal Medicine theme series focuses on firearm violence, publishing research and opinion articles that highlight the impact of laws and policies. The studies examine trends in gun violence, the effectiveness of background checks, and the immunity of the firearm industry to tort litigation.
A narrative review of 34 studies found that stronger firearm laws, especially those with background checks and permit requirements, are associated with decreased firearm homicide rates. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of these laws.
HIV-infected patients with chronic HBV and HCV coinfection are at a higher risk for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a leading cause of AIDS-related deaths. The study found that the incidence rate is 10 times higher in HIV-infected persons compared to the general population.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that clearing vacant lots and adding windows to vacant houses can reduce neighborhood gun violence. The intervention yielded significant cost savings for society, with an estimated $333 return on investment.
Researchers recommend measures to reduce US firearm suicide rates, including targeted legislation and smart gun technology. Public education and research are also crucial in preventing firearm suicides.
A study analyzing 762 gun recoveries found that nearly 80% of perpetrators carrying a gun were not the lawful owners, indicating significant theft and trafficking issues in the region. The study also found that more than 30% of recovered guns were reported stolen before recovery, with women being underrepresented as victims.
According to a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine, travelers to Brazil during the 2016 Olympics are at low risk of contracting or spreading Zika virus. The World Health Organization advised that non-pregnant travelers can safely attend events while taking precautions.
A national survey of 3,914 adults found that two-thirds are open to healthcare providers discussing firearms at home, while 66% support talking about seatbelts. Women were more likely than men to support gun discussions, and gun owners with children or suicide risk factors also endorsed the idea.
Since gun law reform in 1996, Australia has seen an accelerating decline in intentional firearm deaths and an absence of fatal mass shootings. Key findings include a significant acceleration in the downward trend for firearm suicides and a non-significant acceleration in the downward trend in firearm homicides.
A new study finds that mental health professionals overestimate their ability to identify mentally ill patients who may engage in firearm violence. The researchers conclude that mental health professionals need more training on firearms issues to prevent firearm trauma by the mentally ill, with a focus on firearm suicides.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that firearm ownership is closely tied to suicide rates, with states having higher gun ownership levels experiencing higher gun-related suicides. The study analyzed 33 years of data and found that firearm ownership explained 71% of the variation in state-level g...
Experts recommend that physicians counsel patients about firearms as part of routine care, focusing on well-being and safety, especially for children. The review paper addresses common misconceptions and provides resources for clinicians and patients to address firearm-related injuries.
Physicians can ask patients about firearms, counsel them on gun safety, and disclose information to third parties as needed. Current federal and state statutes do not prohibit discussing firearms with patients, but many physicians lack training and knowledge to provide effective counseling.
A new study by Drexel University researchers found that gun hunting is driving seven monkey species toward extinction on Bioko Island. Four of the seven species are especially vulnerable and unable to adapt to hunting, with the red colobus being the most at risk due to its specialized niche and larger body size. The researchers suggest...
A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers found that three-strikes laws increase fatal and non-fatal assaults on officers by 33% and 62%, respectively. In contrast, permit-to-purchase handgun laws appear to protect law enforcement officers against handgun assaults, with Missouri's repeal associated with...
A recent study found that only about half of suicidal patients are questioned about their access to firearms or lethal means by emergency department doctors, leaving a significant opportunity for intervention. Easy access to guns is particularly concerning, with 25% of patients keeping loaded and unlocked guns at home.
A new study by Boston University researchers found that three state laws - requiring firearm identification, ammunition background checks, and universal background checks - can substantially reduce gun deaths. Implementing these laws nationwide could project a national mortality rate of 0.16 per 100,000 people.
A nationwide study found that universal background checks for guns and ammunition can substantially reduce firearm deaths in the USA. Implementing these laws could halve national gun death rates, cutting overall gun deaths to 1.99 per 100000 (81% decrease).
A review of 130 studies across 10 countries found that firearm-related laws led to declines in firearm homicide and suicide rates. Laws regulating background checks and storage also showed specific reductions in certain types of gun deaths.
A new study published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence found a significant relationship between firearm crime and an increase in concealed-carry gun permits. The research examined county-level data from Florida, which issued over 1.6 million valid concealed-carry permits as of November 2015.
Research identifies distinct geographical patterns of fatal unintentional firearm injuries in seven Appalachian states with lax child access laws. Five Western coastal states show high rates of 'legal intervention' deaths due to police actions or officer fatalities.
The journal has devoted its first special issue to gun violence, with notable findings including household gun ownership increasing risk of gun suicide and statutes restricting DVROs reducing fatal intimate partner violence.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found a substantial association between state-level firearm ownership rates and killings of women by guns. State gun ownership rates explain 40 percent of the variation in women's homicide victimization rates, compared to just 1.5 percent for men.
A survey of nearly 4,000 people found that 60% of Americans would buy a smart or childproof gun, debunking the argument that there is no market for such guns. The technology uses fingerprint or RFID verification to prevent unauthorized use.
A team of researchers has identified a unique gait pattern among top Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev. The experts link this 'gunslinger's gait' to military or intelligence training, specifically KGB instruction on keeping the weapon close to the chest while walking.
A study published in Injury Prevention found that gunshot wound patients in urban areas with high crime rates were more likely to die within five years, mainly due to homicide. The research tracked patients after discharge from hospital and showed a significant risk of early death among these survivors.
A new study reveals that nonpowder firearms like airsoft and paintball guns can cause severe injuries in pediatric patients. Twenty-nine percent of the children treated for nonpowder gun injuries required surgery, highlighting the need for stricter regulations on muzzle velocities to prevent such incidents.
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that only 2% of commonly searched websites for firearm storage guidance correctly identified all four safety practices. The four measures include keeping guns locked and unloaded, and storing ammunition in a separate location.
Firearm-related injuries result in thousands of deaths and injuries each year, with estimated economic costs of FRIs being immense. The average inpatient length of stay for an FRI was almost 7 days at a cost of $22,000, resulting in $679 million annually on inpatient care.
In Trinidad and Tobago, ballistic imaging technology was hindered by inefficient processes, backlogs, and delayed information transmission. The country's Integrated Ballistics Information System (IBIS) generated few hits due to database delays and insufficient evidence input.
Research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that Connecticut's permit requirement led to a 15.4% reduction in firearm suicide rates, while Missouri's repeal increased rates by 16.1%. The study suggests factors other than handgun licensing may have contributed to the decline in Connecticut.
A special issue of Preventive Medicine addresses firearm violence, highlighting its impact on public health and the need for increased funding. The article presents key findings on the relationship between alcohol abuse, gun ownership, self-defensive gun use, and criminal acquisition of firearms.
A new study found that the US had a disproportionate number of public mass shooters, with 31% of global incidents occurring on American soil. The study suggests that civilian firearm ownership rates are a strong predictor of a nation's number of public mass shooters.
CU researchers call for improved firearm safety counseling by physicians, emphasizing respectful dialogue and cultural competence. They argue that physicians should reconsider their approach to discussing firearm safety with patients, acknowledging the diverse perspectives of gun owners.
Research suggests that cognitive training can improve shooting abilities by enhancing response inhibition, particularly in individuals with ADHD. The study found that participants who underwent response inhibition training shot fewer civilians in simulated scenarios, indicating a potential new approach to firearms training.
A new study found that Connecticut's permit-to-purchase handgun law, which requires background checks and safety training, led to a 40% drop in firearm-related homicide rates. The law also raised the purchasing age to 21 and restricted sales to licensed dealers.
The article discusses the impact of mass shootings on individuals and communities, highlighting the need for proactive strategies to prevent gun violence. Commentaries from experts offer scientifically grounded solutions, including threat assessment strategies and community-based approaches to address fear and distrust.
Restricting access to firearms for people who misuse alcohol is associated with reduced risk of committing firearm violence. Studies link binge drinking and heavy chronic drinking to aggressive firearm behaviors, while policies in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and the District of Columbia show varying degrees of enforcement.
Researchers propose using tiny robots driven by magnetic potential energy from MRI scanners to treat hydrocephalus and other conditions. The robots can be steered out of the body after treatment, eliminating the need for invasive surgeries.
A new report suggests that gun violence restraining orders can be a promising strategy for reducing firearm homicide and suicide in the US. GVROs allow family members or intimate partners to request an order from a civil court, authorizing law enforcement to remove guns from the individual's possession and prohibiting new purchases.