Quinn Calls Youth Violence a "Public Health Menace"

Chicago - An average of 14 people between the ages 10-24 are murdered everyday in the U.S., that's a statistic from the CDC Governor Pat Quinn says is unacceptable.

He kicked off National Youth Violence Prevention Week today at a children's hospital in Chicago.  Studies have shown youth violence can be traced to family history, rejection by peers, even drugs and alcohol.

Quinn spoke today hoping to raise awareness for the measures available in communities so youths can resolve their conflicts without resorting to violence.  "Violence is a public health menace" says Quinn.  "We have to use public health strategies to take on and prevent violence."

Health officials didn't outline any new strategies to prevent youth violence.  Instead, they said health departments need to coordinate better.