Gun violence has been identified as a significant public health issue by experts in the field. In 2024, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy characterized it as a public health crisis, emphasizing the need to protect children from firearm violence and to address the issue through a public health framework.
This approach focuses on identifying populations at higher risk and providing support to mitigate these risks. Research indicates that young men in impoverished communities, as well as individuals facing crises, are particularly vulnerable to gun violence. Webster notes that conflict mediation and temporary firearm access restrictions can be effective strategies for reducing incidents of gun violence.
Moreover, there is a notion of social contagion associated with gun violence, akin to the spread of infectious diseases. Webster compares this to vaccination efforts, suggesting that as more individuals engage in prevention efforts, the rates of gun violence may decrease similarly.
However, current initiatives to address gun violence may face challenges. The Trump administration’s actions to cut funding for organizations aimed at reducing gun violence have raised concerns about the sustainability of such efforts.
Webster has critiqued the MAHA report, suggesting that it does not adequately consider the health and safety implications of firearm injuries and deaths on children and adolescents. He argues for a recognition of these issues as significant threats to public well-being.
This overview highlights ongoing discussions about the public health implications of gun violence and the need for continued focus on effective interventions.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/09/11/1123553/maha-report-gun-violence-checkup/