Thomas W. Young, M.D.

Date published: 3/14/2006

I would like to comment on Charles Cunningham's letter about perceived inappropriate questioning by his children's pediatrician regarding the presence and accessibility of firearms in his home ["Physicians, don't push your politics on my kids," March 7].

Beyond infancy, accidents, homicide and suicide are by far the most common causes of death in the pediatric population. A pediatrician who ignores this fact is not doing his job--to act as an advocate for the health and welfare of children.

Questions about exposure to tobacco smoke, bicycle and motor vehicle safety, firearm safety, alcohol and illicit drugs, and (dare I spark another round of letters) sexual behavior are crucial to providing complete medical care.

Mr. Cunningham assumes a political motivation behind this line of questioning. Inquiring about the presence of firearms and their security is not a condemnation of the Second Amendment, just as discussion about safety recommendations regarding residential swimming pools is not a condemnation of watersports.

As pediatricians, we cannot let "political correctness" get in the way of quality care. The American Academy of Pediatrics makes recommendations regarding the health of children but in no way dictates the opinions of individual pediatricians.

Likewise, I know several Fredericksburg gun owners who disagree with many of the actions taken by the NRA.

Mr. Cunningham certainly has the right to seek another pediatrician for his children--one who will ignore the major threats to his children's health.

I'm sure that if the offending pediatrician's identity was revealed, his or her office would be inundated with new patients whose parents desire a thorough and caring physician to care for their children.

New Orleans

The writer is a pediatric cardiologist.

Date published: 3/14/2006