Addiction grips a community
Exploring the epicentre of America's struggle with opioid addiction, from the boardrooms of Purdue Pharma, to a distressed Virginia mining community and to the hallways of the DEA.
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"Dopesick" shines a piercing light on the opioid crisis that has gripped America, revealing the catastrophic consequences of addiction on communities and families. The series intricately weaves together personal stories and systemic failures, illustrating how the boardrooms of Purdue Pharma fueled an epidemic that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives.
The data is staggering: in 2021 alone, over 80,000 people died from opioid-related overdoses, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl responsible for nearly 88% of these fatalities. "Dopesick" exposes the harsh reality that while an estimated 2.5 million Americans suffer from opioid use disorder, only 36% receive any form of treatment, highlighting a critical gap in our healthcare system.
Through its compelling narrative, the film not only raises awareness but also calls for urgent policy changes. It underscores the need for better regulation of pharmaceutical companies and advocates for increased access to treatment for those struggling with addiction. By showcasing the devastating impact on communities, particularly in places like Virginia's mining towns, "Dopesick" serves as both a wake-up call and a beacon of hope for reform, pushing society to confront and address the opioid crisis head-on.
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