Hospitalization Due to Assault Injury Across Different Age Groups, 2010 to 2014: A Population-Based Study in New South Wales, Australia. (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seah, Rebecca; Draper, Brian; Mitchell, Rebecca
• Is Part Of: Asia-Pacific journal of public health. Volume 31:Number 1(2019)
• Page Start: 39
• Page End: 50
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: assault -- hospitalization -- health outcomes -- mortality; Public health -- Pacific Area -- Periodicals; Public health -- Asia -- Periodicals; 362.1095
• DOI: 10.1177/1010539518821001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1010-5395

Abstract

Objective. Assault is a global public health issue that affects individuals of all ages. This study describes the epidemiological profile of assault-related hospitalization and health outcomes across different age groups in New South Wales, Australia. Methods. Population-based linked hospitalization and mortality data from January 1, 2010, to June 30, 2014, were used to identify assault-related hospitalizations. Age-standardized rates were calculated and health outcomes were examined by age group. Results. There were 22 579 hospitalizations due to assault, with an age-standardized rate of 55.9 per 100 000 population (95% confidence interval = 55.2 to 56.70). Assault by bodily force (63.1%) and by sharp or blunt objects (21.6%) were the most common injury mechanisms. Individuals above 60 years had the highest mean hospital length of stay at 7.3 days, 30- and 90-day mortality, and average hospitalization costs at $9757. Conclusion. The findings have important implications in informing the development and strategies to reduce assault-related incidents in the community.