Violence is a serious public health problem that affects people in all stages of life. Violence is defined by the World Health Organization as, “The intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community, that either results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment, or deprivation.”
Using the public health approach, KIPRC researchers are committed to preventing intentional injuries (violence-related injuries) occurring in Kentucky. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funds several surveillance system projects which allow researchers to define and monitor the problem, identify risk factors that lead to violence and identify factors that protect communities, families and individuals from violence. With this understanding the most effective strategies can be implemented.