Opioid crisis: Indiana's hidden victims

 

One of the most innocent group of victims affected by the opioid crisis is babies.

According to the Indiana Youth Institute, babies exposed to opioids can experience growth delays in the womb, premature birth, heart defects, and problems with brain and spinal development.

Sixty to 80 percent of babies exposed to opioids in the womb also experience Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, a group of symptoms caused by opioid withdrawal after the baby is born.

These early issues can have long-term effects. Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome may impact kids' growth, behavior, cognitive development, language abilities, and academic achievement throughout their childhood years.

Children with a parent who is an addict are also more likely to experience abuse or neglect.