It’s been a while…
First and foremost, updated metrics have been released recently regarding the impact of opioids on America. An article by U.S. News titled Opioid Misuse Keeps Rising Among Older Americans says the opioid misuse rate for individuals over the age of 55 is steadily increasing. This may come as a surprise to some because people generally think of drug users as young and naive. However, the overdose death rate of those over 55 has increased by 1,886% in the last 20 years—a startlingly high value. The reason for increasing opioid misuse among the older population is most likely reliance on prescribed painkillers. Younger people tend to have less chronic pain, so it would make sense for those over 55 to form a dependency on prescribed painkillers more easily to treat their multitude of aches. In addition, the increase in overdose death rate can be explained by a difference in the age groups. Older individuals often struggle to metabolize drugs due to their aging internal conditions. Therefore, complications are much more likely.
Another article by The Indiana Gazette, titled Opioid Overdose Antidote Urged for Schools After Student’s Fentanyl Death, is very relevant to me as a high school student. A 13-year-old student recently died of an opioid overdose at a school in Hartford, Connecticut. The likely culprit is fentanyl, which has been running rampant across America recently. The kid likely did not consume fentanyl knowingly; it is more probable that it was present in another drug he had been given (e.g., marijuana, pills). This student could have been saved if the school nurse and/or first responders had been better prepared to recognize an overdose and administer naloxone (Narcan). They had the drug present, but did not anticipate someone so young using opioids when they attempted to treat him or her. Therefore, it is essential that schools create a response plan for overdoses and stock Narcan to avoid tragedies like this one. The National Association of School Nurses has taken the first step, offering a downloadable “tool kit” with info on administering naloxone.
If you would like to learn more about fentanyl’s rapid spread through my state’s capital, Indianapolis, the following video is very informational: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/crime/2021/12/28/fentanyl-how-opioid-has-flooded-indianapolis-streets/6496968001/?gnt-cfr=1
Finally, as a personal update regarding my progress toward becoming an anesthesiologist, I have received admission from 4 colleges and am waiting on 3 more results. I have the options of Indiana University, Purdue University, and the University of Texas at the moment. I was deferred/waitlisted by the University of Michigan. Each of the schools has its advantages so even if I don’t receive any more admissions, I face a tough decision. No matter which of these schools I attend, I will receive a great education and will be prepared to enter med school after. Outside of applications, I am working on a plethora of scholarship essays to try and offset the enormous cost of college as much as possible.
Image source: https://assistedlivingeducation.com/many-senior-opioid-addicts/
Brice Rider 