In the mid 1990's Congress forbade the federal government to fund research into the health risks posed by guns. But by now enough private research has been done that the surgeon general could write a report based on existing data.
The public needs information on how often guns in the home are used against family vs. how often they are used against intruders or on legitimate self-defense. To what extent does a gun in the home elevate risks of suicide, fatal accident, and domestic violence?
Fifty years ago, the surgeon general's report on the hazards of cigarette smoking helped reduce ignorance - and change public attitudes - and then public policy. We won't be able to change laws or policies until attitudes and awareness change.