Unintentional injury: A major health problem for young children and youth

This article reviews data on childhood injury and explains how unintentional injuries have become the leading health problem for young children in the United States and a major health problem in teenage years. The article discusses the major types of childhood injuries, trends over time, and variations by location and social, behavioral, and familial risk factors. Results of epidemiological and sociobehavioral research on injury are followed by a discussion of policy considerations in the attempts to deal with childhood injury and its consequences. This includes a discussion of major ways to prevent injuries, a review of government activities, and recommendations for future efforts.