World

The Growing Fentanyl Crisis: A Global Emergency

Addiction often begins subtly, much like being caught in a riptide, where initial control quickly turns into a desperate struggle. The International Fentanyl Crisis mirrors this sensation. What starts as a minor indulgence can escalate into a devastating dependency, leaving individuals feeling helpless and trapped. According to the National Centre for Drug Abuse Statistics, over 50% of teenagers in the U.S. have misused drugs at least once. Drug abuse among 8th graders surged by 61% from 2016 to 2020. The opioid crisis, particularly fentanyl, exacerbates this situation. Annually, approximately 69,000 people globally die from opioid overdoses.

Addiction impacts mental health, leading to paranoia, hallucinations, and impaired judgment. Opioids, including fentanyl, disrupt the brain’s reward system, causing severe dependency. Fentanyl, 100 times more potent than morphine, was initially used for pain management in chronic illness but has become a major issue in the illicit drug market. It’s often mixed with other drugs, increasing its potency and danger.

The Fentanyl Supply Chain and Its Impact

Fentanyl’s rise in the illicit market involves complex international dynamics. Since January 2024, California authorities have seized nearly 4,638 pounds of fentanyl powder. Most of this fentanyl is manufactured in Mexico, with precursor chemicals supplied by Chinese companies. Despite China’s 2019 commitment to regulate fentanyl production, meaningful enforcement is lacking. China’s subsidies for fentanyl precursors have increased, facilitating the drug’s spread.

Mexican cartels, such as the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels, handle the bulk of fentanyl trafficking. They use sophisticated methods to transport the drug into the U.S., where it is sold, often unknowingly, to teenagers. Many young people are deceived into consuming fentanyl disguised as common prescription drugs. Counterfeit pills, containing fentanyl, are responsible for numerous deaths among high schoolers.

To combat this crisis, comprehensive strategies are essential. Efforts must include international cooperation, public education on drug abuse, improved regulation of prescription opioids, and access to rehabilitation services. Establishing a sub-committee within the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime could enhance efforts to address the fentanyl crisis globally. The situation demands urgent action to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the strain on healthcare systems worldwide.

Also Read: India And US Forge Stronger Path For Clean Energy Transition

Ishana Sharma

Recent Posts

Yogi Adityanath Calls For Reforms To Make Madrasa Education Modern And Employment-Oriented

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday emphasised the need for sweeping reforms in the madrasa…

31 mins ago

Tulsi Gabbard Backs India’s Hunt For Pahalgam Terror Attack Perpetrators

United States Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard on Friday expressed strong support for…

1 hour ago

World Leaders Head To Rome For funeral Of Pope Francis

Indian President Droupadi Murmu will also attend, representing India alongside Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister…

2 hours ago

Centre Tells Supreme Court Waqf Act Amendments Aim To Stop Land Encroachment

The Centre told the Supreme Court that it amended the Waqf Act, 1995, to stop…

4 hours ago

PM Modi, Amit Shah Mourn Passing of Dr K Kasturirangan; Hail His Contributions To Science & Education

PM Modi and Amit Shah mourn the passing of Dr K Kasturirangan, praising his leadership…

6 hours ago

Rahul Gandhi Meets Pahalgam Terror Victims In Kashmir; Supports Govt’s Action Against Attackers

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Kashmir on Friday and met civilians injured in the…

6 hours ago