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Opioid epidemic: A public health failure and one researcher’s personal connection

Time & Date

Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Opioid epidemic: A public health failure and one researcher’s personal connection


Opioid use disorder is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. More than 42,000 people die each year from the disorder, exceeding the number of deaths by motor vehicle accidents and firearms.

Researcher Jennifer Sharpe Potter, Ph.D., M.P.H., finds this unacceptable. Find out more about what Dr. Potter calls one of the greatest public health failures of our generation, and what drives her research into substance use disorders.

To learn more about UT Health San Antonio’s research discoveries highlighted at the annual President’s Luncheon in May, watch the full presentation.

The annual President’s Luncheon was held March 5 at the Pearl Stable. President William L. Henrich, M.D., MACP, invited four exceptional faculty members to share a glimpse into the important work they accomplish each day. Attendees are community supporters of UT Health San Antonio.

In addition to Dr. Potter, the other presenters were Lisa Cleveland Ph.D., RN, Gregory Aune, M.D., Ph.D., FAAP, and Ruben Mesa, M.D., FACP. Their presentations will be featured as well.

Read more about Dr. Potter’s work.

Read more about Get Waivered TX

The post Opioid epidemic: A public health failure and one researcher’s personal connection appeared first on UT Health San Antonio.


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