3 Priority Areas to Combat Opioid Abuse

3 Priority Areas to Combat Opioid Abuse

Apr 10, 2015

By: Nicholas Garlow, HHS (Public Affairs)

The opioid crisis has become a dark shadow over communities across this nation. Drug overdose deaths are the leading cause of injury death in the United States – more than even car crashes – because they have increased five-fold since 1980. Our intention is clear: to save lives by preventing the misuse and abuse of prescription opioids and heroin.
Earlier this week, Secretary Burwell joined HHS agency leaders, members of Congress, and partner organizations for the 4^th annual National Rx Drug Abuse Summit in Atlanta, GA to discuss the opioid crisis.
In her speech, the Secretary identified three priority areas where HHS can focus efforts to have the most significant impact.

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