Columbine Findings from Psychiatric Investigation May Help Prevent Similar Tragedies; A&E Exclusive Report to Air Tonight

4/15/2002

From: Mary Ann M. Pagaduan, 800-621-1773, ext. 8040; 312-202-8040 or Mike Campea, 800-621-1773, ext. 8043; 312-202-8043, both of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA)

CHICAGO, April 15 -- Recently, Steven Pitt, D.O., led a team of professionals from the Threat Assessment Group, Inc.(r), of Newport Beach, Calif., in performing "psychiatric autopsies" on Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, the two Columbine students who went on a shooting rampage nearly three years ago in Littleton, Colo. to understand why this happened; A&E's "Investigative Reports" followed Dr. Pitt and the TAG group throughout the process and will air this exclusive on Monday, April 15 from 10-11 p.m. Eastern Time.

The TAG group looked at all aspects -- school environment, the town, the media -- that influenced the two young men. Dr. Pitt and the TAG group hope that their findings will prevent this tragedy from taking place in another community by educating parents, teachers, and police how to see the warning signs and intervene appropriately.

While the TAG group works with communities to prevent violence, D.O.s work with their patients to prevent disease. On April 18, National D.O. Day, members of the osteopathic family will reach out to the public to raise awareness about osteopathic medicine. As the osteopathic profession continues to grow, it has become more important for the public to know about their medical care options.

As complete physicians, D.O.s can prescribe medication and perform surgery. They practice in all areas of medicine from neurology to sports medicine to dermatology. In addition, D.O.s have added training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a hands-on treatment tool that they can use to diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries. OMT can be used in conjunction with and sometimes in place of medication or surgery to restore mobility and function.

The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) represents approximately 47,000 D.O.s, promotes public health, encourages scientific research, serves as the primary certifying body for D.O.s, and is the accrediting agency for all osteopathic medical schools and health care facilities. For more information about osteopathic medicine, visit the AOA's Web site at www.aoa-net.org.