In November, 2016, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy released the office’s first ever report on substance misuse and its related consequences, entitled Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs and Health. The report attempts to shift how substance use disorders are viewed nationwide, as a chronic disease of the brain rather than a character flaw. Addiction is a serious public health issue. The report acknowledges that one in seven Americans suffer from addiction and misuse of substances. Addiction is commonly paired with other chronic diseases such as HIV, cancer, and heart disease, which consequently cost our nation $442 billion annually.For years health care providers have been pushing for change and recognition for tackling addictions by use of treatments, prevention methods, and recovery supports. The US Surgeon General states “We’ve known for a while now that tens of thousands of Americans are dying from the disease of addiction, and the frustrating part about it is- we know how to treat it.” This report gives the community a chance to stand for what is right and lend a hand to those in need. We need to break down the financial and social barriers against addiction and promote optimum health for all who face these challenges.For the full report please click here.
