A study on opioid-related deaths has revealed significant increases in several states between 2015 and 2020. South Dakota experienced the highest rise, with opioid-related deaths growing by 355%. Louisiana followed closely, showing a 293% increase in fatalities. Other states with notable increases include Indiana, Delaware, and New Jersey, each recording over a 200% rise in deaths due to opioids.

Conversely, three states—Oklahoma, Utah, and New Hampshire—reported decreases in opioid-related deaths during the same period. The rise in deaths is largely attributed to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Public health experts emphasise the need for comprehensive strategies, including expanded access to addiction treatment, robust prevention programs, and harm reduction efforts such as naloxone distribution, to combat this epidemic effectively.

Source: NewsNation