Gun violence is a pressing issue in the United States, with more than 48,000 lives lost to gun violence in 2022 alone. This alarming statistic prompted Tarang Parekh, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Delaware College of Health Sciences, to delve into the connections between social determinants of health (SDOH) and firearm ownership and storage practices. His research sheds light on how factors like housing and food insecurity, financial hardship, and transportation barriers impact gun ownership and storage behaviors.
Parekh’s study, conducted with fellow epidemiologist Jee Won Park and public health students Annaliese Pena and Meghana Bhaskar, analyzed data from the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The study focused on responses from nearly 63,000 adults in five states—California, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, and Ohio. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, revealed that firearm ownership was more prevalent among non-Hispanic white households with higher incomes and education levels. On the other hand, unsafe gun storage practices were more common in non-Hispanic Black and lower-income households, where SDOH and high-risk behaviors were identified.
Financial hardship, housing and food insecurity, and transportation barriers were significantly associated with unsafe firearm storage practices. This highlights the impact of social and economic factors on gun ownership and storage behaviors. Additionally, states with Child-Access Prevention (CAP) laws, like California and Minnesota, showed higher rates of safe firearm storage. Parekh advocates for stronger CAP laws and gun buyback programs to promote safer gun storage practices.
Parekh’s research emphasizes the need to look beyond individual behavior and mental health when addressing gun violence. By understanding the systemic socioeconomic factors driving gun ownership, we can develop more effective prevention strategies. Community-based education and support are key to addressing the root causes of gun ownership and promoting safer storage practices.
Looking ahead, Parekh plans to further investigate the intersection of state gun laws and SDOH. By addressing the social and environmental factors that contribute to firearm ownership, we can create safer communities and reduce gun violence. Ultimately, Parekh’s work underscores the importance of understanding why people feel the need to own a firearm and how we can make our communities safer to address this issue.
