United States: Last year, the United States experienced a record-breaking number of drug overdose deaths, with statistics from the final federal figures released yesterday indicating that 108,000 Americans have been killed by drug overdoses in 2022, as reported by The Associated Press.
About 20 years ago, the total number of US deaths due to drug overdose increased each year, tragically setting a new peak record each year, which made this demographic the most in trouble with drug abuse the US ever had.
Statistics
The official number for 2022 was 107,941, with the U. S. CDC saying that this is approximately 1% higher than the almost 107,000 overdose deaths reported in 2021.
Initially, the provisional data had a preliminary figure of more than 109,000 overdose deaths in 2022, but preliminary data is inclusive of all overdose deaths, while the final number excludes non-US residents.
Gender Disparities
The drug-induced death rate showed more or less stability in 2021 and in 2022. The impact was evident; however, it was deemed not to be statistically significant. The relative flatlining in overdose statistics suggests a possible plateau in the pandemic. However, regular monitoring and action are still needed to prevent a reverse trend and make sure the progress in drug abuse is maintained, as reported by The Associated Press.
Outlook for 2023
Although the early data found by the CDC does not give the exact figure for the number of deaths from drug overdose in 2022 yet, the available information from the first nine months of 2023 shows that drug overdose deaths stayed stable in 2023. The figure of seeming stabilization gives a spark of hope for those who are fighting against substance abuse, it might be possible that efforts to fight the issue yield some good results. However, this momentum can be easily lost in the face of unfunded and uncertain futures. Therefore, the commitment and funding of prevention, treatment, and harm reduction cannot be overlooked.