Impact of Food and Housing Insecurity on Unsafe Gun Storage Practices

Recent research highlights the significant connection between social determinants of health, such as food and housing insecurity, and unsafe firearm storage behaviors. Tarang Parekh, an epidemiologist at the University of Delaware, was motivated to explore this link after experiencing gunfire near his Houston apartment in 2022, which underscored the realities of gun violence affecting everyday life. In 2022, over 48,000 lives in the United States fell victim to gun-related violence, prompting a closer look at underlying social factors that influence firearm practices.

Parekh and his team analyzed data from nearly 63,000 adults across five states—California, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, and Ohio—using responses from the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Their study revealed that firearm ownership tends to be higher among non-Hispanic white households with higher income and education levels. Conversely, unsafe gun storage practices were more prevalent in non-Hispanic Black and lower-income households, where issues like substance abuse, depression, and heightened social vulnerabilities are more common.

Crucially, the study identified that financial hardship and food insecurity are strongly associated with unsafe firearm storage. Parekh expressed surprise at how social drivers, beyond individual mental health, significantly influence gun behaviors. He emphasizes shifting focus from solely individual mental health issues to the broader socioeconomic conditions that shape firearm practices.

The research underscores the importance of policies such as Child-Access Prevention laws, which Netherlands, Minnesota, and California enforce to some extent, promoting safer gun storage in households with children. However, Parekh advocates for strengthening these laws, including mandates for locking devices at the point of purchase, and implementing buyback programs, inspired by the success seen in countries like Canada and New Zealand.

Addressing systemic socioeconomic factors is critical to reducing gun violence. Parekh advocates for community-based interventions and education rather than only legislative measures, emphasizing that understanding why individuals own guns is essential. The COVID-19 pandemic further increased firearm ownership, particularly among minority groups, as a perceived safety measure. Therefore, investing in community support and tackling issues like food and housing insecurity could go a long way in fostering safer communities.

Looking ahead, Parekh plans to analyze how variations in state gun laws interact with social determinants of health, aiming to develop more comprehensive strategies to address firearm safety and violence. His overarching message is clear: gun ownership practices are deeply rooted in social and environmental conditions, and tackling these root causes is vital for effective prevention.

For more details, see the study: Tarang Parekh et al, Social Drivers of Health and Firearm Storage Practices, JAMA Network Open (2025). source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-food-housing-insecurity-linked-unsafe.html