US Overdose Deaths See First Decline in Decades: The Fight Continues
The improvement was driven by a drop in deaths from heroin and prescription painkillers.
Imagine hearing that, for the first time in nearly 30 years, overdose deaths in the US have finally started to decline. That's the hopeful news from a recent CDC report. But before we get too comfortable, there's still a mountain to climb in the fight against opioid addiction. This episode of the Battling Opioids podcast dives into this glimmer of hope and the ongoing efforts to tackle the crisis head-on.
The opioid epidemic has left no community untouched, from bustling cities to quiet rural towns, and Pennsylvania has been one of the hardest-hit states. The CDC's preliminary data reveals that around 68,000 drug overdose deaths were reported in 2018, a slight dip from the previous year. The drop was mainly due to fewer deaths from heroin and prescription painkillers. However, with overdose death rates still about seven times higher than a generation ago, there's no room for complacency.
This episode highlights the tireless work of organizations like Geisinger, a Pennsylvania-based healthcare provider. Over the past three years, Geisinger has slashed its opioid prescriptions by half and opened four medication-assisted treatment centers across the state. Their commitment to both prevention and treatment is a beacon of hope for many struggling with addiction. Public media also plays a crucial role in this battle.
By connecting people across various communities, it helps break down the stigma surrounding opioid use and spreads awareness about available resources. The Battling Opioids podcast is a testament to this collaborative effort, uniting voices from across Pennsylvania to confront the epidemic together. So, if you're looking to understand more about the opioid crisis or find ways to contribute to the fight, this episode is a must-listen.
It's not just about sharing statistics; it's about real stories of struggle, resilience, and hope.