
"PA Counties Among Top for Overdose Deaths"
The opioid overdose epidemic continues to impact Pennsylvania and Ohio, with Pennsylvania reporting 5,146 overdose deaths in 2022, 78% of which were opioid-related. Mercer and Lawrence counties were among the 19 counties where the overdose death rate exceeded the state average. In Ohio, overdose deaths appear to have fallen about 6% in 2023, with factors such as increased naloxone distribution and use, better access to treatment, and declines in drug use levels potentially contributing to the decline. Both states are implementing various measures to combat the crisis, including new training tools for healthcare providers and public safety professionals.





