Project Takeaways

From 18th century China to the American Civil war to 21st century Durham, the roots of the opioid epidemic have sprawled across countries, civilizations, and cultures. It has served not only as a tool for imperialism but also for the catalysis of systematic health inequality - tearing apart the lives of thousands.

Although today, British imperialists are no longer using opium to control colonies oceans away, the abusive legacy of the opium epidemic continues. Big pharmaceutical companies carry the torch of 18th century imperialists and Black and Hispanic populations carry the burden of their reign. As a result, in the 21st Century, communities across the Untied States, such as Durham County, are faced with the consequences of a multi-generational epidemic.

Fortunately, through intensive data analysis and an interview with a local Durham pharmacist, our group has demonstrated that Durham can be used as a preliminary model for tackling many of these generational challenges. Whether it is increasing Naloxone availability or creating partnerships with neighborhood pharmacies, many of the systemic challenges brought by 18th century imperialism can be reversed. 

​​Everyday in the United States an average of 38 people die because of opioid overdose (CDC 11). As this crisis continues to progress rapidly across the world, now more than ever is it time to open our eyes. Time to place patients over profits…

 …Time to realize the challenge of life amongst addiction.