Over the course of several decades, Americans have been suffering from one of the worst health epidemics since the outbreak of AIDS during the 1970s and 80s. In the 20 years of the dreaded Opioid Crisis (so far), so far over two million residents of our country have become opioid addicts, while hundreds of thousands more have died from overdoses. Dangerous synthetics continue to flood into our country, while a portion of legal and regulated drugs are continuing to ruin lives. As we have seen, though, certain parts of the country have experienced the brunt of this epidemic more than others. In a twist of irony, though, the neighbor of West Virginia, the largest epicenter of opioid problems, does not rank high on the list. Let’s take a closer look at Virginia and see how the Mother of States is handling the Opioid Crisis.
On Par with the National Average
In contrast to neighboring regions, Virginia has an opioid problem that has not fully outpaced the national average. As of 2016, the state reported an incidence of 13.5 opioid overdose-related deaths out of 100,000 residents, only a hair above the U.S. incidence of 13.3 fatalities per 100,000 people. Since 2010, heroin-related fatalities have risen tenfold, from 45 to 450, while deaths from synthetics in general increased from 87 to 648. Meanwhile, in 2015, Virginia doctors wrote 5.6 million opioid prescriptions (about 70 drugs per 100 patients), equivalent to the U.S. national average for opioid prescriptions.
Rate of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)
Tragically, the rate of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) outbreaks has been relatively high, though not as severe as the rates in other states. In 2016, Virginia documented about 8.0 outbreaks of NAS out of 1,000 births (about 773 births). Keep in mind that the average across 28 neighboring states is 6.0 cases out of 1,000 births.
Viral Transmission in Virginia
Overall, the rate of viral transmission stemming from opioid use has been a mixed package. Out of the 39,513 new cases of HIV that were reported in 2015, Virginia documented 956 new outbreaks. Meanwhile, out of the 181,871 new cases of hepatitis C that were reported in 2015, Virginia confirmed 8,138 new outbreaks.
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 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.
