“Opioid Overdose Crisis: A Local Perspective” postponed from original date, now scheduled for April 25 in Waukon
The presentation on “Opioid Overdose Crisis: A Local Perspective” originally scheduled for Tuesday, April 3, had to be rescheduled due to winter weather. The presentation has now been slated for Wednesday, April 25 at the same time and location as the previously scheduled event.
According to statistical reports, every day, more than 115 Americans die after overdosing on opioids. Those reports also show that overdose is the leading cause of death in Americans under the age of 50. The misuse of and addiction to opioids - including prescription pain relievers, heroin and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl - is a serious national crisis that affects public health as well as social and economic welfare.
Experts say the United States is in the throes of an opioid epidemic, as more than two million Americans have become dependent on or abused prescription pain pills and street drugs. Some of these Americans may be family members, neighbors, co-workers or friends to those reading this article.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is focusing its efforts in combating that crisis on five major priorities:
1. Improving access to treatment and recovery services;
2. Promoting use of overdose-reversing drugs;
3. Strengthening the understanding of the epidemic through better public health surveillance and education;
4. Providing support for cutting-edge research on pain and addiction;
5. Advancing better practices for pain management.
To learn more about how the opioid crisis is impacting Iowans, area residents are invited to a community presentation Wednesday, April 25 at 7 p.m. in the Community Room at Farmers and Merchants Bank, located at 201 West Savings Main Street in Waukon. The panel of experts presenting at the event includes Dr. Jeffrey Hoffman, Robin Esmann, RN and Joan Parker, RN. Those attending can find out what is happening on a local and state level to address this serious nationwide issue.
