Gun ownership and firearm suicides among women are on the rise, according to a new study published in JAMA Network Open. The research, conducted by lead author Laura Prater from The Ohio State University College of Public Health, sheds light on the need for tailored prevention strategies for at-risk women.
The study found that nearly 4 in 10 women who died by firearm suicide had no documented history of mental or physical health problems. This highlights a gap in prevention efforts, as traditional interventions have primarily focused on white men and veterans. With the increase in gun ownership among women – rising from 10-20% to about 50% in 2020 – there is a pressing need to address contributing factors that may lead to suicide.
Prater emphasized the importance of understanding and identifying at-risk women who may not be accessing the healthcare system. Less than one-third of the women in the study had evidence of mental health treatment, and only around one-fifth reported known physical health diagnoses. This leaves a significant portion of women with limited prevention opportunities within the healthcare system.
While Prater’s previous work has focused on interventions in healthcare settings, she now sees the need to explore other options for reaching at-risk women. This includes engaging with programs for women facing violence, educating community health workers, and providing screenings and education at gatherings where women congregate.
All healthcare settings, including federally qualified health centers, should prioritize gun safety education and open conversations about suicide prevention. With firearms present in at least one-third of American homes, widespread efforts are needed to prevent deaths by firearm suicide.
The study, which analyzed over 8,300 suicides from 2014 to 2018, underscores the importance of addressing the rising trend of firearm suicides among women. By identifying and addressing risk factors, implementing tailored prevention strategies, and promoting gun safety education, we can work towards reducing the incidence of firearm suicides among women.
The research was conducted in collaboration with Jennifer Hefner and Pejmon Noghrehchi from Ohio State University. For more information, the study can be accessed in JAMA Network Open.
