opioid epidemic

[ oh-pee--oid ep-i-dem-ik ]

noun

1. a public health crisis brought about by a notable increase in the use of opioids:

   legislative efforts to deal with the opioid epidemic.

Word History and Origins

Origin of opioid epidemic¹

First recorded in 2010–15

Example Sentences

The same year, Congress passed the “21st Century Cures Act,” which provided $1 billion over two years to assist states combating the opioid epidemic.

From Time

The first wave of the opioid epidemic in the US began in the 1990s.

From Popular-Science

A less addictive opioid, however, could be an important tool to deal with the opioid epidemic.

From Popular-Science

The Veterans Administration has come under withering criticism in recent years for contributing to the nation’s opioid epidemic.

From The Daily Beast

I wanted to get to work fixing potholes, addressing our affordable-housing crisis and finding solutions to our opioid epidemic to help build a stronger, more vibrant city.

From Time