Surgeon General Declares Firearm Violence a Public Health Crisis

On June 25, 2024, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued an Advisory on firearm violence, declaring it a public health crisis. Over the past decade, deaths from firearm-related injuries, including suicides, homicides, and accidental shootings, have been rising. Firearm violence is now the leading cause of death among children and adolescents. Nearly 60 percent of U.S. adults report worrying “sometimes,” “almost every day,” or “every day” about a loved one becoming a victim of firearm violence. This crisis extends beyond physical health, creating widespread collective trauma. In fact, 79 percent of U.S. adults report stress over the possibility of a mass shooting, and 33 percent avoid certain places or events due to fear. The Advisory outlines a public health approach to addressing firearm violence, including research investments, community risk and prevention education, firearm risk reduction strategies, and increased access to mental health support. Read the Advisory here.