Leveraging emergency medical services data to analyse characteristics and risk factors of violence: an epidemiological study

Abstract

Background Violence-related injuries result in over a million deaths globally and affect individuals across various settings and demographics. This study examines the characteristics of violence victims and risk factors for assault at homes.

Methodology The Punjab Emergency Service (Rescue 1122) is the primary provider of emergency medical services in the province of Punjab, covering a population of over 156 million through over 900 ambulances. We analysed data from Rescue 1122 from 1 January to 31 December 2022, where the chief complaint was physical assault. Regression analysis was conducted to identify those at risk of assault at home versus roads.

Results During the study period, Rescue 1122 responded to 24 559 physical assault calls. Victims were predominantly males (77.7%). Labourers (53.30%) and homemakers (20.50%) were the most affected occupational groups. The average age of victims was 33 years (SD 12.7), with 6.36% being children and 4.65% over the age of 60. Assaults occurred predominantly at home (52.8%) and on the roadside (31.77%).

Multivariable regression analysis revealed that females had 2.35 times higher odds of being assaulted at home versus roads compared with males (95% CI 1.98 to 2.80). Compared with victims aged 18–29 years, children under 18 years and elderly over 60 years had higher odds of getting assaulted; adjusted OR (AOR) 1.38 and 1.62, respectively. Homemakers (AOR 2.45) had the highest odds of assault at homes.

Conclusion Homes usually regarded as safe space can be a risk factor, especially for females, children and the elderly. Targeted interventions are essential to reduce this risk.