Why are black Americans less affected by the opioid epidemic? Racism, probably.

[L. Coyote]

7. "Predominantly, black men have found themselves behind bars ...."

https://intpolicydigest.org/2017/09/14/current-opioid-crisis-highlights-racial-double-standard/

.... Since the introduction of these “tough on crime” laws, prison populations have exploded. Predominantly, black men have found themselves behind bars for multiple, non-violent, drug-related offenses. Where was the concern for mental health treatment when drug addiction was plaguing their communities?

Luckily, sentencing reform (with a particular focus on drug-related laws) is beginning to get traction in the United States, but not quickly enough. Already, millions of black men have suffered from disenfranchisement after being released from prison, and most likely this demographic will continue to suffer under the Trump administration’s crackdown. Especially if Trump and Sessions have their way, much of the progress that has been made in the past 8 years under Obama could be rolled back. It already seems like the entire purpose of Trump’s presidency is to undo the last. ......