On Tuesday, a new advisory was issued by the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, stating that gun violence is now considered a public health crisis.
Murthy made it clear in his announcement that an evidence-based approach to public health change is crucial. He also stressed the need for a ban on assault weapons and large-capacity magazines for civilian use.
In a statement, Murthy expressed that firearm violence is a pressing public health emergency that has caused the loss of numerous lives, unbearable agony, and deep sorrow for countless Americans.
In a press release circulated by the Office of the Surgeon General, ten national medical organizations, including the American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Surgeons, American Public Health Association, and the YWCA, expressed their support by issuing statements.
In a statement, American Medical Association President Bruce A. Scott, MD, highlighted how physicians across the country are caring for patients and families affected by firearm violence.
According to an advisory, gun violence has become the primary cause of death among children and teenagers in the United States. From 2012 to 2022, there has been an increase in gun-related suicides across all age groups, with the most significant surge occurring among 10-14-year-olds.
Gun-related deaths among children aged 1-19 years old in the United States are alarmingly high, exceeding those of other high-income nations by a significant margin.
In a statement, Ben Hoffman, MD, FAAP, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, acknowledged that gun violence poses a significant public health threat to children. Pediatricians have long recognized this fact, as it can have severe and long-lasting effects on families and communities.
According to a recent advisory, more than 50% of Americans have faced a firearm-related incident in their lifetime, or know someone who has. Additionally, approximately 60% of U.S. adults experience worry about their loved ones being victims of firearm violence, with some worrying sometimes, almost every day, or every day.
According to the advisory, gun violence disproportionately affects certain groups, such as Black people, American Indian and Alaskan Native individuals, and veterans.
According to the advisory, firearm violence has a far-reaching impact that extends beyond the obvious physical injuries and fatalities. It causes a ripple effect that leads to widespread harm and collective trauma across society. This harm poses a significant threat to the mental and physical wellbeing of young people, making it imperative that we give this issue the attention and action it deserves.
In a recent statement, Murthy emphasized that the ongoing horror of firearm violence in America can be stopped. He firmly believes that all Americans should be able to live without the fear and devastation that firearm violence brings. Murthy also acknowledged that it will take our nation’s collective commitment to turn the tide on firearm violence.
The advisory provides a comprehensive guide for public health leaders and policymakers on evidence-informed prevention strategies to reduce firearm-related death and injury. It suggests increasing investments in research and data collection, implementing risk reduction strategies, and engaging communities as key solutions. By following these recommendations, we can take proactive steps towards preventing firearm-related incidents and promoting public safety.
According to the report, civilian use of assault weapons and large-capacity magazines should be banned. Furthermore, it suggests treating firearms like other consumer products to improve safety measures and establish standardized protocols.
In a statement, Georges C. Benjamin, MD, the Executive Director of the American Public Health Association, acknowledged that gun violence is a devastating national tragedy and a critical public health issue that could be easily prevented.
Dr. Jade A Cobern, M.D., MPH, is a licensed and practicing physician who is board-certified in pediatrics and preventive medicine. She is currently serving as a medical fellow of the ABC News Medical Unit.
