I’m working on a health & medical writing question and need the explanation and answer to help me learn.
familiarize yourself with a current public health issue and a specific target population that is being affected. You will identify a public health problem (national or international) and describe why it is considered a public health problem. You will also describe the impact the problem is having on a specific target population (e.g., gender group, geographic location, racial or ethnic group, age group, religious group, or sexual orientation group) and explain why addressing this public health issue is a priority for improving the overall health of the target population.
- Introduction
- Summarize your public health issue with respect to the community or state to which it is pertinent.
- Discuss why it is considered a public health issue. Be sure to support your claims with research.
- Identify the population that is most at risk for this issue. Be sure to support your claims with research.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction
The public health issue that I have chosen to focus on is the opioid crisis in the United States. Opioid addiction has become a significant concern for the country, and it is important to understand why it is considered a public health problem. This issue has had a profound impact on various target populations, but for the purpose of this response, I will focus on the impact it has on the age group of young adults (18-25 years old).
The opioid crisis is considered a public health problem due to its widespread prevalence and devastating consequences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared the crisis a national epidemic, highlighting the urgency and severity of the issue. Research consistently shows that the misuse and abuse of opioids, such as prescription painkillers and illicit drugs like heroin, have led to a significant increase in overdose deaths and addiction rates. The detrimental effects extend beyond the individual users to their families, communities, and the healthcare system as a whole.
Young adults, specifically those aged 18-25, are particularly vulnerable to opioid addiction. According to studies, this age group has the highest prevalence of opioid misuse and heroin use in the United States. Factors such as peer pressure, experimentation, and exposure to prescription opioids due to surgeries or injuries contribute to their increased risk. Additionally, young adults may lack the awareness and education about the potential dangers of opioids, making them more susceptible to addiction.
Addressing the opioid crisis in young adults is a priority for improving their overall health and well-being. The consequences of opioid addiction in this age group go beyond immediate physical health issues. It affects their mental health, educational attainment, employment prospects, and social relationships. By targeting interventions and prevention efforts towards young adults, we can interrupt the cycle of addiction, reduce overdose deaths, and promote healthier lifestyles.
In conclusion, the opioid crisis is a significant public health issue in the United States, with young adults being a particular at-risk population. This issue is considered a priority for improving the overall health of young adults due to its detrimental impact on various aspects of their lives. By implementing comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies specifically tailored for this age group, we can effectively address this public health problem and enhance the well-being of the target population.
