Gun Violence in America and its Disparate Impact on Black Communities. Gun Violence is a Health Disparity
Gun Violence in America and its Disparate Impact on Black Communities.
Gun Violence is a Health Disparity
(Comments My Own)
Charles Modlin, MD, MBA
Vice President, Chief Health Equity Officer
DrModlinMD.com #DrModlinMD.com #CharlesModlinMD #HealthDisparities
I find it truly heartbreaking to witness the despair caused by the vicious cycle of gun violence in American and let’s face it, black communities are those most often afflicted by gun violence.
The devastating impact of this violence cannot be overstated. Families are torn apart, dreams are shattered, and futures are stolen. It is a cycle that perpetuates itself, leaving communities trapped in a never-ending cycle of despair.
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One of the most tragic aspects of this cycle is the toll it takes on our youth. Young lives, full of potential and promise, are cut short by senseless acts of violence.
As a physician and surgeon, I have seen it first-hand. I have during my career worked on trauma teams and as a urological trauma surgeon treating and operating on victims of gun violence in New York City (Bellevue Hospital) and in Cleveland, Ohio (Huron Hospital; MetroHealth Hospital).
The loss of these young individuals not only robs their families of their loved ones, but also deprives society of the contributions they could have made. It is a tragedy that we cannot afford to ignore.
The despair caused by gun violence in black communities is further exacerbated and perpetuated by the lack of resources and opportunities available to these communities. Poverty, limited access to quality education, and systemic inequalities all contribute to the perpetuation of this cycle.
Without addressing these underlying issues, it becomes increasingly difficult to break free from the grip of gun violence. The trauma experienced by those living in these communities cannot be underestimated.
The constant fear, grief, and loss take a toll on mental health and well-being. The psychological scars left behind by gun violence can last a lifetime, affecting not only the individuals directly impacted but also the entire community. It is a heavy burden to bear, and one that demands urgent attention and action. What’s more, chronic psychological trauma often manifests as well as physical manifestations of disease.
Breaking the cycle of gun violence requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the root causes and the immediate consequences. It necessitates investing in education, job opportunities, and community programs that provide alternatives to violence.
It also requires stricter gun control measures to prevent easy access to firearms. Only by tackling these issues head-on can we hope to bring an end to the despair caused by the vicious cycle of gun violence in black communities.
MPH, MSN, PMHNP-BC
1yWell said, this is a humanity issue that is inadequately addressed.
Student at Regent University (MBA) Employed at Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA)
1yNot only it is a health disparity each day, every minute and every hour, some Black and Brown kid/adult is being murdered. We need to continue the prevention not only in our hospitals but in our communities and in our schools. We need to educate Black and Brown color people that we are the target and we need to take a stand, if not for others but for ourselves. Enough is Enough!!! Lets end this today!!! #endgunviolence.