How Many of Us are on Drugs? Startling Prescription Statistics

The two countries in the world with the highest addiction rates to drugs are New Zealand and Iran. The two countries, however, have addiction issues to two totally separate substances. In New Zealand, the issue is cannabis, while in Iran, they lead the world in addiction to opiates. Following Iran, Afghanistan is second in opiate addiction, followed by Russia, Maldives, Ukraine, Macau and the United States. Without question, opiate addiction is an issue not only in the United States but around the globe. There is a crisis that needs to be addressed and the need is apparent.

There is the issue of legally prescribed drugs. These are FDA approved drugs that are prescribed by licensed physicians in the United States. When one begins to look into the statistics involving these completely legal, professionally prescribed drugs, what one finds can be even more disturbing.

It should be noted that prescription drugs are on a level more serious than over-the-counter drugs. Anyone can purchase over-the-counter drugs to control headaches, fever and minor aches and pains. A person is only provided a prescription drug if their condition warrants more serious treatment.

That being said, most estimates say that over 50% of Americans are taking at least one prescription drug. That means over half of us have a serious enough condition to be treated by a drug prescribed by a professional. A Mayo Clinic survey places that number closer to 70% and perhaps, just as startling, is the fact that the Mayo Clinic says 20% of us are on FIVE OR MORE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.

One of the issues with healthcare in the United States is it is expensive. The fact that so many of us are taking legally prescribed drugs is a contributing factor.

The point is you should ask questions of your physician about why certain drugs are being prescribed. Just because the costs are being taken care of by insurance shouldn’t abdicate your responsibility to your healthcare or your inquisitiveness. Ask questions, get answers and take more control of your healthcare. You will likely be better for it.

If you are struggling with the high costs of healthcare, contact us. Let us see how we can help you find efficient solutions.