Scientific Sessions

Drug abuse continues to be a global challenge, with the opioid crisis standing out as one of the most severe public health emergencies of recent decades. Opioids, including prescription painkillers, heroin, and synthetic variants like fentanyl, are highly addictive and have contributed to alarming rates of overdose deaths worldwide. The crisis is fueled by over-prescription, illicit distribution, and the potency of synthetic opioids, which significantly increase the risk of fatal outcomes. Beyond health consequences, opioid misuse also leads to profound social, economic, and psychological impacts, affecting families, communities, and healthcare systems. Addressing this crisis requires not only medical intervention but also broader systemic reforms in prescribing practices, monitoring, and access to care.

Harm reduction has emerged as a practical and compassionate strategy in combating drug abuse and the opioid epidemic. Instead of focusing solely on abstinence, harm reduction emphasizes minimizing the negative consequences of drug use. Initiatives such as needle exchange programs, supervised consumption sites, widespread distribution of naloxone (an overdose-reversal drug), and safe prescribing guidelines have proven effective in saving lives and reducing disease transmission. Coupled with medication-assisted treatments like methadone and buprenorphine, these approaches help stabilize individuals while creating opportunities for recovery. By combining prevention, treatment, and harm reduction, society can move toward a balanced response that prioritizes public health, safety, and dignity for those affected by substance use disorders.