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5mo ago

US Drug Overdose Deaths Drop Below 100,000 for First Time Since 2020

CDC data shows a significant decline in overdose fatalities, offering cautious optimism for ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis.

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CDC
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Iris Sidikman, harm reduction coordinator at the Women's Health Center of West Virginia, holds fentanyl testing strips the clinic has on hand to give people dealing with substance use disorder in the clinic parking lot on Thursday, Aug. 4, 2023, in Charleston, W.Va. (AP Photo/Leah Willingham)

Overview

  • Overdose deaths in the US have decreased by approximately 14% from June 2023 to June 2024, marking a notable shift in a decades-long trend.
  • The decline is attributed to increased availability of naloxone, expanded addiction treatment options, and funding from opioid-related legal settlements.
  • Despite the overall decrease, overdose deaths remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels, and certain states like Alaska and Nevada have seen increases.
  • Experts caution that while the data is promising, sustained efforts and resources are necessary to continue this positive trend.
  • Racial disparities persist, with overdose deaths disproportionately affecting Black and Native American communities, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.