The article under analysis is entitled “Opioid epidemic may have cost US governments $37.8 billion in tax revenue.” The piece appeared in Science Daily on April 11, 2019. The authors provide the estimates of the budget losses in tax revenue associated with opioid use disorder (Penn State, 2019). It is stressed that Pennsylvania saw a decline of 68,000 employees in the labor market and almost 6,100 deaths due to opioid overdose. The authors also claim that the investment in the prevention and treatment of substance abuse disorders can mitigate the financial burden by bringing people back to their working places.
The problem discussed in the article has a direct effect on the community as many people’s socioeconomic issues aggravate due to these individuals’ addiction. People lose their jobs and social ties, which often has a negative influence on families and children. Of course, opioid misuse leads to substantial financial losses as well. Therefore, it is essential to invest funds in the creation of effective programs that could ensure the proper use of opioids. Healthcare professionals and educators should be involved in these projects as people should be informed about ways the disorder can develop and its negative impact on people’s lives.
Opioid misuse is a serious public health issue that has a considerable negative impact on the residents of Pennsylvania. People have limited access to high-quality healthcare services associated with this disorder treatment and prevention. Americans start using opioids due to various reasons including peer pressure or relative availability of drugs. However, the vast majority of misusers develop an addiction after taking prescribed opioids. People have to tackle such associated problems as depression, anxiety, isolation, and overall health deterioration.
References
Penn State. (2019). Opioid epidemic may have cost US governments $37.8 billion in tax revenue. Science Daily. Web.