Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD

The Addiction Files

Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD

  • Crack/Cocaine "The History Behind this Devasting Epidemic"

Crack/Cocaine "The History Behind this Devasting Epidemic"

Tuesday 13th August 2024

Explore the history and impact of crack cocaine with Dr. Petersen and Dr. Cook. Learn about its socio-economic effects and treatment options.
Explicit
41 minutes
Informative
Eye-opening
Compassionate
Educational
Supportive

About this podcast

The Addiction Files
Author:
Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Navigating Alcohol Dependency
Nutritional Pathways to Recovery
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Family Recovery from Addiction
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Episodes:
96 (View all)
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Crack Cocaine: Unveiling the History and Impact

Episode Overview

  • Crack cocaine's rise in the 1980s had devastating effects on marginalised communities.
  • Systemic racism and economic disparity fuelled the crack epidemic.
  • Immediate and long-term physiological effects of crack use are severe.
  • Effective treatment requires addressing social determinants of health.
  • Emerging pharmacological treatments show promise in treating crack addiction.
Crack falls through the cracks for a very cheesy pun. And it shouldn't.
Crack cocaine's explosive rise in the 1980s and 1990s left a trail of devastation, reshaping communities and lives. In this episode of The Addiction Files, Dr. Darlene Petersen and Dr. Paula Cook dive into the history, consequences, and treatment of crack cocaine addiction. They explore how crack cocaine, a cheaper and more accessible form of cocaine, disproportionately affected marginalised communities, particularly Black inner-city populations.
The episode sheds light on the socio-economic factors that fuelled its popularity and the harsh legal repercussions that followed, leading to mass incarceration and long-lasting societal impacts. Dr. Cook provides a compelling historical overview, detailing how systemic racism and economic disparity set the stage for the crack epidemic. The hosts also discuss the physiological effects of crack use, from immediate symptoms like dilated pupils and arrhythmias to long-term consequences such as heart failure and neurological damage.
They emphasise the importance of understanding these impacts to offer better treatment options. The conversation also touches on the various treatment methods for crack cocaine addiction, including behavioural therapies and emerging pharmacological treatments. Dr. Petersen highlights the importance of addressing social determinants of health, such as housing and employment, to support recovery effectively. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex history and ongoing challenges related to crack cocaine addiction.
It offers valuable insights into the socio-economic and medical aspects of the epidemic, making it both informative and eye-opening. Why should you tune in? Because understanding the past is crucial for creating a better future. This episode not only educates but also encourages empathy and action towards those affected by addiction.