In 2023 fentanyl overdoses ravaged the U.S.
Federal researchers now say drug overdoses are a leading cause of death among young Americans age 18-45.
In 2023 the overdose death rate topped 112,000 in a 12 month period for the first time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention… total annual spending on the drug war now tops $40 billion a year. Most drug policy experts agree this vast system failed to detect or stop the rapid spread of more toxic synthetic street drugs. Efforts to weaken fentanyl production and smuggling by Chinese chemical manufacturers and Mexican drug cartels have failed to curb the supply in American communities. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, law enforcement seized “more than 360 million deadly doses” of fentanyl in 2023, but the drug remains cheap and widely available. Meanwhile, the network of roughly 17,000 drug rehab and treatment centers across the U.S. is often described as a “wild west” of expensive, poorly regulated and unscientific programs. Most offer abstinence-based care, which means people experiencing addiction can’t get help until they’re ready or able to stop taking drugs. Experts say that leaves millions of fentanyl-users – and people experiencing other substance use disorders – vulnerable.
Original Article (NPR):
In 2023 fentanyl overdoses ravaged the U.S. and fueled a new culture war fight
Artwork Fair Use: Harbin
Recent Comments