She Strengthens

The Devastating Reality of Gun Violence in America

Every day, over 100 lives are lost to gun violence in the United States, adding up to a staggering 38,000 deaths annually. Despite the alarming statistics, gun violence is often viewed as a political or criminal justice issue rather than a health crisis. However, many experts argue that it’s essential to reframe the impact of gun violence as a medical issue, not a political one.

A Growing Epidemic

Globally, an estimated 2,000 people are injured, and 500 die daily due to firearms. In the United States, the numbers are equally concerning. According to Giffords, a gun control advocacy and research organization, there are over 100 gun deaths every day and approximately 38,000 each year. A recent report from the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions analyzed firearm fatality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and found that overall 2020 firearm-related deaths totaled 45,222 – an increase of 15% from the previous year.

The Impact on American Youth

Gun violence has surpassed car accidents as the leading cause of death among American youth. Researchers found an increase of 29.5% in gun-related deaths among U.S. children and adolescents up to the age of 19 from 2019 to 2020. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for action to address the root causes of gun violence.

Reframing Gun Violence as a Health Issue

From a policy standpoint, it’s essential to recognize gun violence as a public health crisis. The American Medical Association officially declared gun violence a public health crisis in 2016 and has developed policy recommendations to reduce firearm injuries, trauma, and deaths. Experts argue that reframing gun violence as a health issue can lead to more effective solutions and a greater sense of urgency to address the problem.

The Complexity of Gun Violence

Gun violence is a complex issue that touches on many facets of society. It exposes fissures and inequities in our society, disproportionately affecting Black communities. Unarmed Black civilians are five times more likely to be shot and killed by police than their unarmed white peers. Gun homicides have a high impact on Black people in this country, with Black men comprising more than half of all gun homicide victims.

Raising Awareness and Promoting Change

Raising awareness about gun violence is crucial to promoting positive change. By approaching the issue from a public health perspective, we can focus on prevention and treatment. This involves handling each aspect of gun violence with sensitivity and nuance, from dealing with suicide to addressing domestic violence. Organizations like the Giffords Law Center are committed to working with medical and public health professionals to find solutions.

A Call to Action

It’s time to recognize gun violence as a national concern that requires immediate attention. By reframing the issue as a health crisis, we can work towards finding effective solutions to address the root causes of gun violence. It’s essential to hold our leaders accountable for making changes and ensuring they have the necessary information and public support to move forward. Together, we can create a safer, healthier America for all.