Promoting Firearm Injury Prevention and Advocacy as Pediatric Surgeons: A Call to Action From the APSA/AAP Advocacy Committee

jpedsurg.org

Firearm injuries have become the leading cause of death among American children. Here we review the scope of the problem, and the pivotal role pediatric surgeons have in preventing pediatric firearm injury. Specific methods for screening and counseling are reviewed, as well as how to overcome barriers. Community and hospital resources as well as organizational efforts are discussed. Finally, a path for surgeon advocacy is outlined as is a call to action for the pediatric surgeon, as we are uniquely poised to identify pediatric patients and deliver timely interventions to reduce the impact of firearm violence.

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Article · Dec 2023 · 1 min read

In brief

This article addresses firearm injuries as the leading cause of pediatric death in the United States and outlines the pediatric surgeon's role in prevention. It provides practical guidance on screening, counseling patients and families, and engaging in community-level advocacy to reduce firearm violence affecting children.

Firearm injuries are now the leading cause of death in American children, making prevention a clinical priority for pediatric surgeons.
Pediatric surgeons should implement screening and counseling protocols to identify at-risk patients and deliver timely safety interventions.
Surgeons are uniquely positioned to advocate for firearm injury prevention through community partnerships and organizational efforts.
Overcoming barriers to discussing firearm safety requires leveraging hospital resources and evidence-based counseling approaches.
Advocacy at institutional and policy levels is essential for pediatric surgeons to reduce the impact of firearm violence on children.

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