Homicides involving knives and other sharp objects in Scotland, 1981–2003

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Abstract
Background Homicide rates have been increasing in Scotland, and homicides involving knives are of particular concern. Methods and results We use mortality and population data from 1981 to 2003 to calculate smoothed, standardized mortality rates for all homicides and homicides involving knives and other sharp objects, for all of Scotland and separately for Glasgow. Over half of homicides where the victim was male involved the use of a knife. Over 20 years, the homicide rate rose 83%, whilst that involving knives increased by 164%. Conclusion The rapid increase in homicide involving knives is becoming a public health problem. Proposed changes to legislation are unlikely to halt this rise.