Readers of this column have seen reference to the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS), now active in 17 US states. At last, data are emerging from the system with this new report that analyzes nearly 16 000 suicides and homicides in 16 of the NVDRS states. The report shows the depth of analysis available through NVDRS, including decedent demographics, precipitating circumstances, toxicology results and method information for the suicides (56.1%), homicides and legal interventions (29.6%), undetermined intent violent deaths (13.3%), and unintentional firearm deaths (0.7%). In addition, discussion is given to opportunities for prevention such as addressing drug and alcohol use, mental health treatment, enhancing coping skills and increasing prevention programs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Surveillance for violent deaths—National Violent Death Reporting System, 16 states, 2005. MMWR Surveill Summ 2008;57(3S):1–45.

For the second year, the Indian Health Services newsletter has devoted a special issue to injury prevention. Articles address bullying prevention, a web-based data collection for motor vehicle occupant protection data, and Herculean efforts to improve injury reporting within health services that are contracted out to providers. The newsletter is intended for health professionals and researchers interested in American Indian and Native Alaskan healthcare, but others will also find the articles of interest. Henceforth, each July …