"Rising Child Drug Overdose Deaths: America's Urgent Crisis"

A recent study has revealed that 22 American teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 die each week due to drug overdoses, with the mortality rate rising to 5.2 per 100,000. The spike in deaths is attributed to the prevalence of fake medications laced with fentanyl, rather than increased illegal drug use. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted education and intervention by schools, doctors, and mental health professionals to address the risks associated with counterfeit medications. Additionally, authorities are urged to focus on "hotspot" counties with high overdose rates, particularly in western states.