Phoenix, the state capital and biggest city of Arizona, has a big problem with drug overdoses that have killed thousands of people and hurt the health of many more. This piece sheds light on the problems facing the city, mainly the scary increase in fentanyl, a man-made opioid that is causing a lot of damage in Phoenix’s neighborhoods.
The Use of Fentanyl Rising
One of the main drugs in Phoenix’s drug problem is fentanyl, a painkiller that is 50 to 100 times stronger than heroin or morphine. Because it is so strong and often mixed with other drugs, it is very dangerous for people who use it.
The number of fentanyl pills seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Phoenix has skyrocketed, from 6 million in 2020 to almost 12 million last year. The majority of these pills come from secret labs in Mexico, where they are made with drugs that are cheap and easy to get.
Exacerbation of the Crisis
The COVID-19 pandemic has made the Phoenix drug overdose problem worse. Isolation, financial problems, and mental stress have all made people want drugs more, but they have also made it harder for them to get help and recover.
The Arizona Department of Health Services says that the number of deaths linked to opioids increased by 80% between 2018 and 2020. 94% of these deaths were caused by manufactured drugs like fentanyl. Phoenix first responders are dealing with a rise in potential overdoses and are often giving naloxone, which is an emergency overdose drug.
Introduction to Phoenix’s Extreme Heat
Phoenix also has to deal with the very hot summer weather, which is not related to the plague. With normal highs above 106°F (41°C) in July, the heat makes things harder for people who are using drugs.
Extreme heat can make drug users less hydrated, raise their blood pressure, and change how strong their drugs are, which makes them more dangerous. People who don’t have a place to stay or is homeless and can’t get to water or shade are more likely to get sunburns, heat exhaustion, and overdose.
The Need for Action
Because Phoenix’s drug overdose problem is so complicated, there needs to be a comprehensive and well-coordinated response. The government, the healthcare system, law enforcement, neighborhood groups, and drug users themselves must all work together to solve this complex problem.
Increasing Naloxone Availability and Training
Ensuring widespread availability of naloxone, the overdose reversal drug.
Training more individuals on its proper administration.
Expanding Treatment and Recovery Options
Expanding options for those with substance use disorders.
Reducing stigma and barriers hindering individuals from seeking help.
Enhancing Harm Reduction Services
Developing programs providing safe environments for drug users.
Educating users on risk reduction and overdose prevention.
Strengthening Surveillance and Monitoring
Monitoring drug supply and trends.
Promptly alerting the public and providers to changes or dangers.
Collaboration to Disrupt Drug Trafficking
Collaborating with neighboring states and countries.
Enforcing laws and regulations to protect public health and safety.
Conclusion
Finally, Phoenix’s problem with drug overdoses, which is made worse by the popularity of fentanyl, needs immediate and organized action. The complicated problem needs everyone involved to work together to find complete answers that will protect the health and well-being of the community as much as possible.
Read More: This City Has Been Named One of the Best Places to Live in California