This episode tackles gun violence in America, a serious and escalating public health crisis. According to the CDC, firearms kill nearly 50,000 Americans each year and are now the leading cause of death for U.S. children and teens. The facts are startling, but not entirely surprising, when you consider that Americans own more guns per capita than any other country in the world. 

Unfortunately, gun violence is often viewed as a political issue as opposed to a public health threat, which has prevented meaningful progress in fighting this epidemic. But that is beginning to change as policymakers, health care providers, and other stakeholders reframe the conversation and come together in the interest of safer, healthier communities. 

Host Heather Howard, a professor at Princeton University and former New Jersey Commissioner of Health and Senior Services, examines challenges and potential policy solutions with two staunch advocates for depoliticizing gun safety and uniting for the common good: Senator William H. Frist, M.D., a practicing physician and former U.S. Senate Majority Leader, whose ongoing work proposes a shift in culture and targeted, bipartisan legislation; and Chethan Sathya, M.D., a pediatric trauma surgeon and director of the Northwell Health Center for Gun Violence Prevention . 

The panel recommends a public health approach focused on firearm safety and injury prevention, emphasizing the value of scientific data and the implementation of evidence-informed interventions, such as safe storage, background checks, and “red flag” laws. The show presents a hopeful path forward that fosters cooperative discussion and actions aimed at protecting our children and communities.

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Read two recent articles on gun safety authored/co-authored by Senator Frist: 

“The Massive New Public Health Threat To Kids: What Policies Would You Consider To Address Gun Safety?” Forbes, 5/3/23 

“Gun Violence is the No. 1 Killer of Children; Here Are Common-Sense Steps to Address It.” The Tennessean, 4/17/23

Read more about the Northwell Health Center for Gun Violence Prevention, led by Dr. Sathya.

Learn about the Regional Gun Violence Research Consortium, a coalition of gun violence researchers and practitioners that seeks to inform policymakers and the public with evidence-based policy recommendations. 
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The Princeton Pulse Podcast is a production of Princeton University's Center for Health and Wellbeing (CHW). The show is hosted by Heather Howard, a professor at Princeton University and former New Jersey Commissioner of Health and Senior Services, produced by Aimee Bronfeld, and edited by Alex Brownstein. You can subscribe to The Princeton Pulse Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts.