Substance use continues to place a heavy economic and social burden on both Canada and the United States. Recent data highlights the urgent need for stronger steps to tackle these problems.
Economic Impact in Canada
In Canada, the total cost of harms related to substance use has reached a staggering $49.1 billion. A significant portion of this cost is attributed to short-term disability, amounting to $4.1 billion in 2020 alone. Alcohol and tobacco lead the charge, responsible for 80% of productivity losses due to absenteeism and presenteeism from 2007 to 2020. Notably, while the impact of these substances has remained stable, cannabis and other central nervous stimulants like methamphetamine have seen alarming increases of 206% and 331%, respectively. Additionally, “substance use added $13 billion to health-care costs in 2020, further stressing the system. More than 200 people in Canada die every day because of it” (source).
The breakdown of costs by substance reveals a troubling picture:
- Alcohol: With a total cost of $19.67 billion, alcohol accounts for 40.09% of the economic burden, primarily through lost productivity.
- Tobacco: At $11.15 billion, tobacco’s costs are similarly rooted in productivity losses and healthcare expenses.
- Cannabis: Responsible for $2.38 billion, cannabis sees significant costs associated with criminal justice and productivity.
- Opioids and Other Substances: These substances collectively contribute to billions in costs, mainly through healthcare and lost productivity.
Rising Concerns in the United States
The situation in the United States further highlights the critical issues at play. Analysis of opioid and fentanyl overdose death rates in states like Oregon and Colorado, compared to states without legal cannabis, underscores a worrying trend. Despite the varying legal status of cannabis, “illicit fentanyl is driving the recent increase in US drug overdose deaths” (DEA), pointing to a broader crisis affecting the nation.
In Oregon and Colorado, both opioid and fentanyl overdose deaths have increased significantly in recent years. This spike, particularly notable after cannabis legalization, raises questions about the complex interplay between substance use policies and broader social health crises.
The Call for Robust Measures
The data presented underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to tackle the devastating impacts of substance use. While diverse approaches exist, the focus must remain on implementing robust measures that can effectively curb the widespread harm associated with these substances. By doing so, we can aim to safeguard public health and promote a healthier, more productive society.
Source: Blog
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