In the case of opioids, exposure often starts with a prescription. It might be tempting to simply blame patients for taking too much medication, or doctors for overprescribing. But we must also consider the pharmaceutical companies who market strong opioids directly to doctors. And insurance companies, who are often more likely to fund painkillers than alternatives like physiotherapy. Our modern lifestyles also play a role, with rising chronic pain associated with increases in obesity and office-based work.
