Surgeon General declares gun violence public health crisis
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has declared gun violence a “public health crisis,” marking a historic move in national health policy.
In his advisory, Murthy emphasized the urgent need for action, saying that firearm violence is now on par with issues like tobacco and opioids.
The report underscores alarming statistics, revealing that over half of US adults have been directly impacted by gun-related incidents.
Murthy highlighted the disproportionate toll on children, where firearm injuries now surpass other leading causes of death.
As many as 54% of US adults have either experienced a firearm-related incident directly or have a family member who has.
The advisory calls for comprehensive measures including stricter firearm regulations and enhanced mental health services.
The announcement has sparked support from public health experts and advocates for gun violence prevention.