Drug overdoses are now the top cause of death in people who are under the age of 50. In 2016, there were over 59,000 drug overdose deaths. This is the highest number of drug overdoses ever recorded in the United States. In 2015, there were 52,404 drug overdose deaths. Drug overdose deaths increased by 19 percent from 2015 to 2016.
Maine, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida and Maryland are the states with the highest drug overdose deaths. In Ohio, there was a 25 percent increase in drug overdose deaths in 2016.
Drug Overdose Statistics
In order to understand how bad the drug problem is, it is important to take note of overdose statistics from 1980 to 2016. In 1980, there were 10,000 drug overdose deaths. In 2000, there were 20,000 overdose deaths. In 2010, there were 40,000 overdose deaths. In 2016, there were 59,000 overdose deaths. This means that there were almost six times as many drug overdose deaths in 2016 as there were in 1980.
What is Being Done to Curb This Problem?
Governor Jay Inslee is the governor of Washington State. He has issued an executive order that outlines things that will be done in order to curb the drug overdose epidemic. Local health departments, state government agencies and professional groups have to work together in order to eliminate this problem.
International Overdose Day is August 31st. This is a global event. The purpose of this event is to raise awareness about drug overdoses. It is also designed to recognize people who have died due to a drug overdose.
Accidental Vs. Intentional Overdoses
An accidental overdose occurs when a person accidentally takes more of the drug than they intend to. An intentional overdose occurs when a person deliberately takes a large amount of the drug. Many people intentionally overdose on a drug so that they can commit suicide.
What to do if Someone Overdoses
You will need to call 911 as soon as possible if someone overdoses. If the person is not breathing, then you will need to perform CPR if you can. Try to keep the person engaged if they are still conscious. Try to remain calm. If a person overdoses on a prescription medication, then you will need to bring the bottle to the emergency room.