U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams, MD, said Americans must change the way they discuss the opioid epidemic and addiction in a Sept. 20 report entitled, 'Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General's Spotlight on Opioids.'
Here are three things to know:
1. In the report, Dr. Adams highlights the need for a cultural shift in the nation's perception of the opioid epidemic and shares steps Americans can take to aid in the prevention and treatment of opioid misuse.
"Addiction is a brain disease that touches families across America — even my own," Dr. Adams said. "We need to work together to put an end to stigma."
2. The report also includes new data on the prevalence of substance misuse, opioid use disorder and overdoses.
3. Only 53 percent of the public consider opioid addiction a pressing concern, according to the report. Dr. Adams shared the following recommendations to boost the public's awareness and understanding of the opioid epidemic:
- Talk about opioid misuse to better prevent misuse and overdoses
- Take opioids as prescribed, and make sure to store drugs in a secure place
- Dispose of unused medication properly
- Understand your pain and talk with your healthcare provider about alternative pain therapies
- Understand addiction is a chronic disease, but people can recover with the right treatment
- Get the opioid overdose antidote naloxone and ensure you know how to use it
To view the full report, click here.
To view a digital postcard of Dr. Adams' recommendations, click here.