Drug Overdose Deaths Dropped To Lowest Levels In Five Years In 2024

In 2024, the United States experienced a significant decline in drug overdose deaths, marking the lowest figures in five years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were approximately 80,391 overdose deaths, a 27% decrease from the previous year, with about 30,000 fewer fatalities than in 2023. This decline was seen across most states, though five states, including Alaska and Montana, still reported increases.

The drop in overdose deaths is attributed to several factors, including increased access to naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, and improved treatment options for substance use disorders. The CDC's Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) program has been instrumental in providing data to help local communities implement life-saving activities. Dr. Allison Arwady, Director of the CDC's National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting that more than 70 lives are saved daily due to these interventions.

Despite the decline, overdose remains the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44.

The CDC highlights the importance of sustained public health investments and partnerships with public safety to continue reducing overdose deaths.