In the BRFSS survey, a state-added question on past year prescription opioid misuse was included. Survey participants who took any prescription opioid medication were asked β€œIn the past year, did you take any of the opioid pain medications more frequently or in higher doses than directed by a doctor?”

The prevalence estimate is the percent of BRFSS respondents who took any prescription opioid pain relievers in the past year and answered β€œYes” that they took the medication in a higher frequency or dose than what was prescribed by a doctor.

Due to small counts of BRFSS estimates, demographic categories were collapsed and some data were suppressed to protect the BRFSS participants.

For assistance or information about opioid-related issues, contact Your Life Iowa at 855-581-8111, texting 855-895-TEXT (8398), or visit www.yourlifeiowa.org. Your Life Iowa offers free and confidential support for those in need, or concerned about others.

View data visualization