A new report states fatalities had decreased by 10% as of April 2024 while 911 first-responder calls were 16.7% lower

A new report states fatalities had decreased by 10% as of April 2024 while 911 first-responder calls were 16.7% lower

Experts have welcomed news of a reported drop in overdose deaths in the US and say they are cautiously optimistic about the downward trend, while warning that more work and extra resources will be needed to sustain progress.

Overdose deaths in the US have dropped by about 10%, the largest decline in decades – falling to an estimated 101,168 deaths annually as of April 2024, according to an analysis of state-level data.

Emergency room visits for overdose are down by 24% and 911 first-responder calls for overdoses are down by 16.7%. Some of the biggest changes are being seen in eastern states, while some states in the west are still struggling with higher rates.

  • jaemo@sh.itjust.works
    69·
    3 months ago

    What? Since when has the average addict made income, economy or GDP part if the calculus of if they should acquire the next fix or not?

    This is either veiled sarcasm or you’re missing something fundamental about how addiction and motivation interoperate.

    • halyk.the.red@lemmy.ml
      101·
      3 months ago

      Times are tough for everyone, even addicts. Maybe pushing off the next hit for a roof over their heads is saving lives. I’d suck a dick for Cracker Barrel, though.

    • ski11erboi@lemm.ee
      7·
      2 months ago

      I see where you’re coming from but drug use isn’t limited to addicts and even so addicts can be very wealthy.

      • jaemo@sh.itjust.works
        11·
        2 months ago

        100%. “Drugs get you through times with no money better than money will get you through times with no drugs” is kinda what I think the operating principle here. I can relate. I’m sure others can. Hence I question the corollary being posited by OP. Hard times in the job/stocks market would, in my opinion, not reduce overdose deaths.

        And yes, of course you are correct, addiction is a pattern, drugs are just along for the ride and frequently stigmatized as a passenger. Too much of anything makes you one…

    • basmatii@lemm.eeEnglish
      3·
      2 months ago

      It doesn’t matter how addicted you are if theres not enough money moving. Pawn shops are offering less and less like they always do during recessions and drugs are just getting more expensive besides cannabis.