The Truth In Numbers About America’s Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis in America is doing nothing but getting worse.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), opioid overdoses have increased by nearly 30% in only fourteen months from 2016 to 2017. They recorded 142,000 overdoses in emergency rooms between July of 2016 and Sept. of 2017, that is only in our hospitals, not the overdoses that happen outside hospitals. Now, not all of those overdoses were fatal, but in 2016, the US recorded over 64,000 prescription drug overdoses that were fatal.
That is absolutely ridiculous.
“We’re currently seeing the highest overdose death rates ever recorded in the United States.” said Dr. Anne Shuchat.
According to HHS.Gov/opioids, A staggering 116 people die every single day from an opioid-related drug overdose.
Let that sink in.
Nearly 80% of heroin users have reported abusing prescription opioids prior to using heroin.
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And now, fentanyl is claiming lives at a higher rate than ever before.
This is a problem that we need to face as one. No other country in the world has a problem that compares to this. It is an epidemic and a terrifying one at that.
With unity and awareness, we can conquer this beast.
If you or a family member is facing mental and/or substance use disorder, call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357, it is a free, confidential helpline that is open 24/7, 365-days-a-year. Also, visit the helpline website here.
Chris is a writer and social media guru who is known for channeling his creativity. He offers valuable insight regarding trending topics in hip hop, sports, fashion/streetwear, and tech news. Follow @REALschweitz on Twitter
