Public Health in the Rockies 2026

Analysis Focus: This study analyzes patterns of firearm access among American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth in Colorado, with a specific focus on rural populations. The primary objective is to estimate the prevalence of firearm access among rural AI/AN youth and to assess whether access differs by geographic context.

Methods: Cross-sectional data from the 2025 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey (HKC) were analyzed among respondents identifying as AI/AN. The primary variable of interest is firearm access, defined as the presence of a firearm in the home. Rurality, based on school location, is examined as the primary explanatory variable. Weighted descriptive statistics were used to estimate the prevalence of firearm access among AI/AN youth overall and stratified by rural status. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between rurality and firearm access. Models adjusted for demographic characteristics and other relevant covariates. Survey weights were applied to account for sampling design and population representation.

Results (Preliminary / Anticipated): Firearm access is expected to be more prevalent among rural AI/AN youth compared to their non-rural counterparts. Adjusted models are anticipated to show higher odds of firearm access among rural youth relative to those in urban and suburban settings.

Implications: Findings identify rural AI/AN youth as a population with elevated levels of firearm access. These results support the need for geographically targeted and culturally appropriate approaches to firearm access and safety in rural AI/AN communities.