First We Grieve
As a firearm-injury-prevention researcher and emergency physician, I learned early in my career to be clearheaded in a crisis. I use data, even in the face of horror, to provide actionable hope.
TL;DR
- The author, a researcher and physician, is personally affected by the Brown University shooting.
- Grief is a necessary first step in processing the tragedy and its widespread impact.
- National data show firearm injuries and deaths are a significant problem in the US, with various contributing factors.
- A public health approach, involving layered interventions and policy changes, is presented as a path forward.
- Despite existing protective measures, tragedies like the Brown shooting demonstrate that more needs to be done.
- Continued research and advocacy are crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent firearm injury.