Tag

Overdose Deaths

All articles tagged with #overdose deaths

health1 month ago

Federal Cuts Threaten Alaska’s Overdose Crisis Response

Looming federal budget cuts threaten to worsen Alaska's opioid crisis by reducing funding for law enforcement and public health programs like HIDTA, which are crucial for combating drug trafficking and overdose deaths, especially in remote areas. Proposed Medicaid reductions could also limit access to addiction treatment, further exacerbating the crisis. Local officials and advocates are urging Congress to preserve funding to prevent a devastating impact on Alaska's efforts to fight overdose fatalities.

health2 months ago

Alarming 9,000% Rise in Fentanyl Deaths Among Seniors

Fentanyl-related overdose deaths among seniors have surged by 9,000% over the past eight years, driven by the combination of fentanyl with stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamines, highlighting a dangerous and often overlooked aspect of the ongoing opioid epidemic affecting older Americans. Experts emphasize the need for cautious prescribing, increased screening, and harm reduction strategies to address this rising threat.

health2 months ago

Regional Overdose Deaths Rise Amid National Decline in US

Despite a national decline in overdose deaths in 2024, some US regions experienced increases, with disparities linked to drug supply changes, especially fentanyl, and regional differences in data collection and treatment efforts. The crisis remains severe, with over 80,000 deaths, highlighting the need for better surveillance, prevention, and treatment strategies.

health4 months ago

Rising Polysubstance Use in Youth and Adults Drives Overdose Deaths

Drug overdose deaths involving stimulants in the US have increased since 2011, with over half of overdose deaths involving stimulants during 2021-2024, especially among certain racial groups and with co-involvement of opioids. Older individuals and those with cardiovascular disease are more affected by stimulant-only overdoses. The report emphasizes the need for expanded treatment options and targeted prevention efforts to reduce these deaths.

health6 months ago

New Haven County Faces 68 Opioid Deaths Since January Amid Treatment Efforts

Since January, New Haven County has experienced 68 fatal opioid overdoses, prompting calls for urgent action. The APT Foundation has launched a campaign to improve access to immediate, low-barrier treatment for opioid use disorder, emphasizing the need to treat it as an urgent medical issue and eliminate systemic delays and stigma. Despite existing efforts, delays and barriers still hinder timely care, contributing to preventable deaths.

health1 year ago

"Alaska's Opioid Overdose Deaths Soar to Record High in 2023"

Alaska experienced its deadliest year for opioid overdoses in 2023, with a nearly 40% increase in deaths compared to the previous year, primarily attributed to the prevalence of fentanyl in the drug supply. The state saw the highest year-to-year increase in overdose deaths in the nation, with Anchorage being hit the hardest. Efforts to combat the crisis include distributing naloxone kits and fentanyl test strips, as well as utilizing opioid settlement funds to support opioid remediation strategies. Health officials urge Alaskans to avoid mixing opioids with other substances, test illicit drugs for fentanyl, and carry naloxone, which has been linked to a 93% survival rate for those experiencing overdoses.

health-community1 year ago

"Fentanyl Crisis Town Hall Addresses Oakland County Concerns"

A town hall event in Oakland County addressed the fentanyl crisis, with law enforcement, education, prevention, and treatment experts discussing ways to combat the increase in overdose deaths linked to the drug. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has been involved in a significant number of overdose deaths in Michigan, prompting calls for more education and prevention resources for families, law enforcement, and schools. The event highlighted the need for greater mental health resources in schools and emphasized the importance of real people sharing their stories to raise awareness and connect individuals with treatment services.

health1 year ago

"Fentanyl Epidemic Pushes DC Overdose Deaths to Record High"

Opioid overdose deaths in Washington, D.C. reached a record high in 2023, with 518 deaths, driven largely by the prevalence of fentanyl, which now accounts for 96% of overdose deaths. The majority of fatalities occurred among adults aged 40 to 69, mostly men and Black residents, with Wards 5, 7, and 8 being the most affected areas. Public health officials emphasize the need to focus on protecting and treating individuals who use drugs, as fentanyl has infiltrated various substances, making them more dangerous. Naloxone is highlighted as a life-saving tool, and efforts to provide treatment and support for substance abuse are crucial in addressing the crisis.

health-public-safety1 year ago

"Emergence of Nitazenes in Philadelphia Overdoses"

The Philadelphia medical examiner’s office found powerful synthetic opioids called nitazene analogues in at least five overdose deaths in the last two years, suspecting their involvement in a dozen more. These drugs, up to 40 times stronger than fentanyl, are contributing to the city's rising overdose deaths, making the illegal drug market even more toxic. Nitazenes, like fentanyl, can be produced in a lab and are difficult to detect outside of a lab, posing a new danger to the drug supply. Health officials urge people to carry naloxone and be aware of the potential presence of nitazenes in illicit drugs.

health1 year ago

"Record-breaking Drug Overdose Deaths in 2022: CDC Report"

The CDC reported that nearly 108,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2022, marking a record high and continuing the trend of rising overdose deaths over the past two decades. The fatal overdose rate for synthetic opioids like fentanyl increased, while there were declines in rates for certain other drugs. The report also highlighted shifts in overdose death rates among different age groups and genders. Efforts to prevent overdoses include calls for naloxone to be available in schools and legislative initiatives to require its presence.

health1 year ago

"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.