Violence prevention

Violence is a major public health problem in the United States, accounting for approximately 51,000 deaths annually. Most intentional injuries and deaths are caused through suicide, homicide, or assault; domestic abuse accounts for a substantial number of these methods. All forms of violence can cause death however, those who survive carry scars, both physical and emotional, which can affect them throughout life. Violence prevention is an important public health priority for our area.

Safer communities also lead to increased activities for healthy eating and active living that are important to chronic disease prevention. Communities that don't feel safe are less likely to be able to take advantage of investments such as community parks and healthy outdoor activities. Preventing violence is a major piece in reducing the current inequalities that exist in health and safety.
... (Prevention Institute, May 12, 2011)

Violence prevention topics
	Domestic violence
	Homicide and assault
	Suicide prevention

In the United States...homicide claimed 18,361 lives in 2007 and suicide claimed 34,598 lives -- accounting for 30% of all injury-related deaths in the US.
... (CDC Violence and Injury Prevention, Injury Data Reports, 2011)

In Washington...approximately 30% (1,108) of injury deaths were the result of homicide or suicide in 2009. Suicide claimed the lives of 915 people; homicide claimed the lives of 193.
... (Washington Department of Health, Injury Data Tables by Age, 2011)

In King County...30% (269) of injury deaths were due to homicide or suicide in 2009; during this same period, assault and attempted suicide accounted for 1,380 non-fatal injury hospitalizations, 10% of all non-fatal injury hospitalizations in King County.
... (Washington Department of Health, Injury Data Tables by Age, 2011)