Final answer:
The accuracy of the statement about firearms being the 12th leading cause of death between 1999 and 2013 cannot be confirmed without specific data, but the literature and societal events underscore the importance of the debate around gun control and access to firearms in relation to violence and self-destruction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Regarding the statement that firearms were the 12th leading cause of deaths, accounting for 1.3% of deaths with 464,033 fatalities between 1999 and 2013, it cannot be confirmed as accurate or inaccurate without specific data references for that period. However, examining trends during this time, gun violence and fatalities were significant societal issues. The literature suggests a strong debate around the accessibility of firearms and its correlation with mass shootings. Critical incidents such as Columbine and Sandy Hook highlighted these concerns. Additionally, despite other causes of death such as motor vehicle accidents and drug overdoses evolving over the years, there is a distinct focus on firearm-related fatalities, particularly in law enforcement and among civilians.
From a statistical perspective, firearms availability is noted to have a relationship with self-destruction rates. Brent and Bridge's 2003 review underscores the impact of firearms accessibility on self-destruction . Moreover, the downward trend in law enforcement fatalities over the past decades also reflects improvements in police safety, despite occasional spikes in the line of duty deaths, including those owing to firearms or other causes.
When addressing global mortality factors, it is vital to consider various causes, including disease, accidental deaths, violence, and war. Global life expectancy has been increasing, though healthy life expectancy has not kept pace. This context offers a broader perspective on mortality factors beyond firearm-related deaths. Furthermore, the illegal arms trade undeniably exacerbates such societal issues by increasing civilian access to firearms, exemplified by data showing a significant number of unregistered firearms in civilian hands worldwide.