U.S. Drug Overdose Deaths Hit Record High in 2022, Showing Signs of Stabilizing Crisis

The U.S. saw a record 107,941 drug overdose deaths in 2022, a slight rise from the previous year, signaling a potential stabilization after decades of increases, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests a plateau in the overdose crisis, largely fueled by the synthetic opioid fentanyl, which has overshadowed other opioids like heroin and prescription painkillers in the drug supply. However, the report also notes concerning trends, such as a rise in stimulant-related overdoses (cocaine and methamphetamine) and growing racial disparities, with significant increases among Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native populations. Overdose rates fell slightly among younger individuals (ages 15-34) but rose in those 35 and older, including a 10% increase in those 65 and older, highlighting evolving dynamics in the U.S. drug crisis.

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[Source: STAT, March 21st, 2024]