FACT SHEET: The Opioid Epidemic – By The Numbers (PDF – 365 KB)
This two-page fact sheet from HHS highlights statistics about drug
overdose deaths and opioid abuse, the economic impact of the opioid
epidemic, progress from the last year, and next steps in addressing the
epidemic.Understanding the Epidemic
Each day, 44 people in the United States die from overdose of
prescription drugs. A big part of the overdose problem results from
prescription drugs called opioids.What the Public Needs to Know about the Epidemic
Protect yourself and your loved ones from prescription drug abuse and overdose death.History of Opioid Addiction in the United States
Opioid use disorder in the United States can be documented in three broad time periods—1860-1910, 1910-1950, 1950-Present.