Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #100625

Heather McCabe, JD, MSW¹, Lori Lovett, MSEd¹, Joseph O'Neil, MD², and Marilyn Bull, MD¹. (1) Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, Rm 0903, 702 Barnhill Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46202, 317-278-7776, hamccabe@iupui.edu, (2) Section of Developmental Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, 702 Barnhill Drive, Room 1601, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Firearm violence is the leading cause of injury death in Marion County (Indianapolis), Indiana, with over 60% being suicides. Indiana's suicide and firearm death rates have been higher than the national averages for the last decade.

The Indiana University School of Medicine views clergy as an essential partner in reducing these public health problems. This presentation outlines a two-year pilot program initiated in March 2004 for faith based leaders in the Indianapolis area and focuses on:

•Providing faith leaders with information regarding risk signs for suicide and firearm violence •Familiarizing faith leaders with ways to respond when they recognize someone at risk. •Providing an environment where faith leaders can discuss theological issues related to suicide and firearm violence.

Initial findings of the pilot program indicate that faith leaders are receptive to learning more about the topics of suicide and firearm injury prevention. The program helped empower faith leaders to recognize and intervene with those at risk for suicide or firearm injury and refer them for appropriate community interventions,if necessary.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, the learner will be able to

1.Explain who is at risk for suicide or gun injuries in Marion county (Indianapolis) Indiana.
• Describe the importance of involving the faith community in suicide and firearm injury prevention.
• Describe strategies for involving the faith community in suicide and firearm injury prevention.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.