Opioid abuse and other misuse of prescription drugs is ravaging communities across the country.
According to the Department of Health and Human Services, some 11.5 million people misuse prescription drugs, leading to over 42,249 deaths and $504 billion in economic costs in 2016.
This epidemic has had a tremendous impact on human lives, the labor participation rate, businesses, and economic growth.
But more important than the economic effects, is the emotional damage the opioid crisis has wreaked on families, friends, and communities.
In March, the U.S. Chamber brought together leaders from the public and private sectors to collaborate on finding solutions to this crisis.
In October, President Trump signed into law legislation that addresses the opioid crisis. The bill addresses the many causes of the crisis and supports prevention, recovery, and treatment. While this is a great step forward, there is more work to be done.
The business community can help drive change and fight this epidemic. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation is proud to support the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
On Saturday, October 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at thousands of locations across the country, individuals can dispose of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. The service is free and anonymous – no questions asked. For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs, locations, and the Take Back Day event, go to the DEA Diversion website.
You can help promote National Prescription Drug Take Back Day in your community by using the partnership material provided by the DEA and available on their website.
Together we can help protect our communities and fight this epidemic.
