While the US does seem to be leading the pack, it is a common trend in other developed nations especially in older demographics. https://jamanetwork.com/journa

While the US does seem to be leading the pack, it is a common trend in other developed nations especially in older demographics. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/article-abstract/2618383 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/article-abstrac... > Conclusions and Relevance - New persistent opioid use after surgery is common and is not significantly different between minor and major surgical procedures but rather associated with behavioral and pain disorders. https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2017/09/26/1132719/0/en/New-Research-Overprescribing-of-Postsurgical-Opioids-Poses-a-Serious-Threat-to-Patients-and-their-Communities-Women-Undergoing-Surgery-are-at-Greatest-Risk.html https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2017/09/26/1132719/0/... > Nearly 3 million individuals who had surgery in 2016 became persistent opioid users, continuing to take opioids three to six months after their procedure