Gun Violence: A Public Health Crisis 

We can end gun violence by addressing it using a public health approach, which means that we must identify who is at greatest risk of exposure; mitigate the impact of risk factors; and strengthen protective factors that lower risk and support positive outcomes. 

In 2022, Kaiser Permanente declared gun violence a public health crisis and established its Center for Gun Violence Research and Education. The Center supports research that examines the causes of and interventions for firearm injuries with the same rigor used to study and prevent strokes, cancer, heart disease, and other leading causes of death. We also educate the public on causes and solutions and work to uplift the expertise of survivors and the most impacted communities.    

In June 2024, Dr. Vivek Murthy issued a landmark Surgeon General’s Advisory on Firearm Violence addressing its consequences nationwide and recommending actions for fostering safe and healthy communities. Read the Surgeon General’s Advisory to find out what you can do about gun violence and be sure to watch our “Gun Violence: A Public Health Issue” video series to learn about the people and organizations the Center is proud to support as we work together to end this epidemic.