The abuse of opiates (a group of drugs that includes heroin and morphine) as well as opioids (synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of opiates, including prescription painkillers like oxycodone, fentanyl, and naloxone) has a devastating impact on public health. The most recent World Drug Report found that one in 20 adults (age 15-64)--roughly a quarter of a billion people--had improperly used opioids or opiates during the past year. The new series OPIATE AND OPIOIDS: THE SILENT EPIDEMIC will provide young readers with a greater understanding of this serious public health issue. Books in this series will help readers gain a deeper understanding of the issues and concerns related to opioid and opiate development and use or abuse. A chronology, glossary of terms, a guide to additional resources for more information, text-dependent questions and report ideas, and an index supplement the up-to-date information provided within the books.
