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Objectives. Although interpersonal violence has increased among urban youth, its epidemiology remains unclear. To prevent such violence, identifying the susceptible population is important. Methods. Medical records for 998 patients aged 5 to 25 years at an urban hospital were reviewed to compare date for patients admitted for assault-related injuries, those admitted for unintentional injuries, and those for problems other than injuries. Results. Those initially admitted for treatment of assault were found to be at greater risk of subsequent treatment for assault than those admitted for nonijuries. Conclusions. Admission for injuries caused by violence may increase risk for future assaults; hospitalization may offer an opportunity to interrupt these patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]