The alarming spike in fentanyl poisonings among children has come to light, with researchers discovering a staggering 924% increase in cases for youngsters aged 12 and under between 2015 and 2023. For teens, the figures are even more dramatic, surging by 1,506%. The data highlights that in 2023, 45% of these incidents posed a life-threatening risk, a significant rise from just 16% in 2015.
Lead researcher Joseph Palamar from NYU Grossman School of Medicine addressed these findings, stressing the importance of vigilance. “We can’t forget that kids are also at risk during this opioid crisis,” he stated, urging parents to ensure fentanyl, both legal and illegal, is never left exposed around unsupervised children. Potential exposure can also stem from touching objects that have had contact with fentanyl.
This analysis involved the evaluation of over 3,000 fentanyl poisoning reports from poison control centres across 49 U.S. states. The study revealed that 59% of the poisonings occurred among teenagers, with 41% involving younger children. Notably, about 82% of poisonings in children 12 and younger were unintentional, contrasting with 66% of incidents in teens who deliberately sought out fentanyl to get high.
The prevalence of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl is a critical concern. Palamar pointed out, “Parents need to be aware that teens can purchase pills via apps that are sold as Adderall or Xanax but actually contain fentanyl.” This danger exacerbates the risk of accidental poisonings, as young children might accidentally ingest or touch these items out of sheer curiosity.
In response to the ongoing opioid crisis, senior researcher Joshua Black advised parents to keep naloxone on hand, a life-saving drug that can counteract opioid overdoses. He also highlighted the importance of recognising overdose symptoms and seeking prompt medical assistance if necessary.
Recognising the urgent need for awareness, individuals are encouraged to reach out to poison centres at 1-800-222-1222 or call 911 in the event of a suspected poisoning. To mitigate this rising trend, parents must safeguard their homes by securely locking away opioids to protect their children from potential harm.
Fentanyl poisonings have dramatically increased, with a 924% rise among children under 12 and a 1,506% increase among teens from 2015 to 2023. Most cases in younger children are accidental, while teens often seek out the substance intentionally. Urgent action is needed to safeguard children, including educating parents about the risks and the importance of keeping opioids secure.
In conclusion, the steep rise in fentanyl poisonings among children and teens depicts a dire facet of the ongoing opioid crisis. With a significant number of these cases being accidental, it highlights the urgent need for parental vigilance and education surrounding the dangers of fentanyl exposure. Safeguarding homes and being prepared to address opioid overdoses can aid in protecting the vulnerable youth from these lethal substances.
Original Source: www.gjsentinel.com
