Top 5 Takeaways

1. Firearm Homicide Rates: Firearm homicide rates among persons of all ages remained nearly unchanged from 2015–2016 to 2018–2019 in large metropolitan areas and nationally.
2. Increase in Youth Homicides: Firearm homicide rates among youths increased both within and outside large metropolitan areas during the same periods.
3. Rising Firearm Suicides: Firearm suicide rates increased in large metropolitan areas and nationally, with a notable increase among youths outside large metropolitan areas.
4. Disparities in Victim Demographics: Non-Hispanic Black persons represented a disproportionately large percentage of firearm homicide victims, while non-Hispanic White persons were disproportionately represented among firearm suicide victims.
5. Public Health Implications: There is an urgent need for comprehensive prevention efforts to address firearm homicides and suicides, particularly focusing on youths and addressing ethnic and racial disparities.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Scott R. Kegler, skegler@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Kegler SR, Stone DM, Mercy JA, Dahlberg LL. Firearm Homicides and Suicides in Major Metropolitan Areas — United States, 2015–2016 and 2018–2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:14–18. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7101a3

Summary

This report examines firearm homicides and suicides in the 50 most populous U.S. metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) for the periods 2015–2016 and 2018–2019. It highlights that firearm homicide rates among all ages remained stable, while rates among youths increased. Firearm suicide rates increased both in large MSAs and nationally, with a significant rise among youths outside large MSAs. The report underscores the need for comprehensive prevention strategies to address these issues, particularly focusing on youths and addressing racial and ethnic disparities.

Methods

The study used NVSS mortality data to identify firearm homicides and suicides among U.S. residents. Firearm homicide and suicide counts were tabulated for the 50 largest MSAs and integrated with U.S. Census Bureau population estimates to calculate annual rates. Rates were age-adjusted to the year 2000 U.S. standard population profile. Data involving counts less than 20 were excluded from MSA-specific presentations but included in combined calculations.

Discussion

Firearm homicides and suicides remain significant public health concerns in the U.S. The report notes that while overall firearm homicide rates remained stable, youth rates increased, especially outside large MSAs. Firearm suicide rates continued to rise, with notable increases among youths outside large MSAs. The findings highlight the need for targeted prevention efforts, including economic support, access to care, and community-based interventions, to address these issues and reduce disparities.

Conclusion

The report concludes that comprehensive prevention efforts are urgently needed to address firearm homicides and suicides, particularly among youths and racial and ethnic minorities. Strategies should include economic support, improved access to care, and community-based interventions to reduce risks and support affected individuals and communities.

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