Trends in maxillofacial injuries in women, 2000-2004.

Recent government statistics have suggested that there is a reduction in violent crime, but recorded crime figures have shown a 10% increase. Attendance figures at accident and emergency departments show that 75% of assaults that required medical treatment were not recorded by the police, and that 55% of assaults that led to facial injuries were alcohol-related. Drinking alcohol is a risk factor for violent behaviour. A poorly-studied area is alcohol-related violent crimes sustained by women. A restrospective study was made of all female patients referred to a busy regional maxillfacial unit between May and October 2000-2004. A total of 251 female patients with facial injuries was seen at the unit, and records obtained for 219. Accidents were the commonest cause of attendance, and violent crime the second. Interpersonal violence was the most common mode of injury in alcohol-related incidents. Domestic violence did not increase significantly over the study period, and did not seem to be alcohol-related. The incidence of violent crime, and in particular interpersonal violence away from the home, is increasing. Women are at considerable risk of becoming victims of violence.