B.C. Sees Lowest Monthly Drug Deaths in Four Years, Cause of Decline Unclear

October recorded 155 drug-related deaths, a significant drop, but toxic drugs remain a leading cause of unnatural deaths in the province.

The B.C. Coroners Service reported 155 suspected drug deaths in October, the lowest monthly total since 2020.
Drug-related deaths in 2024 have decreased by 9% compared to the same period in 2023, with 1,925 fatalities reported so far this year.
Officials have not identified the reasons for the decline, though it aligns with trends observed in other jurisdictions.
Unregulated toxic drugs remain the leading cause of unnatural deaths for individuals aged 10 to 59 in B.C., surpassing homicides, suicides, and accidents combined.
Health advocates caution that the drug supply remains highly dangerous, urging continued use of harm reduction measures like naloxone and drug testing.