In 2023, U.S. drug overdose deaths decreased by 3%, the first decrease in five years, with a total of 107,543 deaths. This slight improvement is seen as a glimmer of hope in the ongoing drug crisis caused by fentanyl and poly-substance deaths. While the end of the crisis is not in sight, the decrease is a positive development after decades of steady increases. Some states, like Nebraska, Kansas, Indiana, and Maine, saw significant decreases in drug deaths, while others, such as Alaska, Washington, and Oregon, experienced increases. The CDC data also showed no change in overall opioid deaths, slight decreases in fentanyl-related deaths, and slight increases in meth and cocaine-related deaths.
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U.S. drug overdose deaths fell for first time in five years
