Over the course of 20 years, the United States has continued to suffer from the brutal effects of the Opioid Crisis, possibly one of the worst public health epidemics since the HIV/AIDS outbreak of the 1970s and 80s. More and more Americans are gradually being sucked into a whirlwind of addiction and overdoses, and recent reports have confirmed that certain parts of our country have been crippled from this epidemic. West Virginia, New Hampshire, and Ohio have all suffered from opioid-related death and festering piles of synthetics. For whatever reason, the Midwest seems to be a hub for this health emergency. On that note, let’s take a closer look at the opioid problems in Missouri and see how the Show-Me-State is handling the Opioid Crisis.
Sneaking above the National Average
In comparison to other states in the midst of the crisis, Missouri does not seem to be suffering as much as the epicenters, like West Virginia and Ohio, but it still boasts some troubling numbers. As of 2016, Missouri confirmed a rate of 15.9 opioid-related fatalities per 100,000 people (roughly 914 deaths), a few points above the national average of 13.3 fatalities per 100,000 people. The state has also confirmed a boost in heroin-related deaths (21 in 2012 to 380 in 2016) and synthetic deaths in general (97 to 441 since 2013). In 2015, doctors in Missouri wrote an estimated 5.2 million opioid prescriptions (90 drugs per 100 patients, just above the national average of 70 drugs per 100 patients).
Fivefold Increase in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)
As part of a CDC study conducted in 2013, researchers confirmed a national NAS rate of 0.6% of live births among 28 neighboring states. However, studies of hospital diagnostic codes revealed an increase in NAS cases in Missouri from 2006 to 2016. Ultimately, the state may have reported a fivefold increase in these outbreaks, an increase to 3.0% of live births.
Outbreaks of HIV and Hepatitis C
Ultimately, as a result of synthetic drug increases, rates of viral transmission have also increased. Out of the 39,513 new outbreaks of HIV documented in 2015, 465 cases took place in Missouri. Meanwhile, out of the 181,871 new cases of hepatitis C reported in 2015, 7,803 cases occurred in Missouri.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
