Introduction
Morphine, a naturally occurring compound present in opium poppy plants, is the source of heroin, an illicit and dangerous opioid narcotic. Due to growing overdose rates and the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C through shared needles, heroin use has recently become a serious public health concern. An overview of the prevalence, trends, and social factors influencing heroin use and abuse is given in this paper.
Discussion
A number of populations have increased their heroin use, with young adults showing the highest rate. According to Palamar et al. (2020), 0.4% of adults in the US aged 18 and older reported using heroin in 2019. Men are more likely than females to use heroin, and those who have abused prescription opioids in the past or who have a history of substance use disorders are more likely to do so.
The most typical ways of heroin consumption are via injecting, snorting, or smoking. Heroin has a strong euphoric effect that wears off quickly and is followed by tiredness and a sedative condition (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2022). Because of the substance’s significant risk of addiction, tolerance sets in quickly, requiring addicts to take increasing doses to get the needed sensations. Heroin is frequently used with drugs like alcohol, cocaine, or benzodiazepines, which increases the danger of overdose and other negative health effects.
The accessibility of heroin in a neighborhood or area is key to its abuse. Those who reside in underdeveloped areas economically or who have limited access to medical care and addiction treatment facilities are more likely to be impacted by heroin usage and its effects (Palamar et al., 2020). Specifically, higher levels of stress, a lack of access to quality healthcare services, and a lack of social support contribute to greater rates of heroin use and addiction. The problem is further exacerbated by the stigma associated with heroin use and addiction, which can make it harder for addicts to get help.
Conclusion
In conclusion, heroin use leads to physiological and social changes that can potentially destroy people’s lives. Heroin abuse creates serious health risks, especially for vulnerable people. In order to lessen the harmful effects of heroin use, it is essential to address the social determinants of health that support heroin use. Enhancing access to evidence-based prevention, treatment, and harm reduction services is also important for successfully addressing the problem.
References
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022). Heroin DrugFacts. Web.
Palamar, J. J., Han, B. H., & Keyes, K. M. (2020). Trends in characteristics of individuals who use methamphetamine in the United States, 2015-2018. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 213, 1-12. Web.