In 2016, data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health revealed that 116 people in the United States died every day from opioid-related overdoses, resulting in 42,249 deaths throughout the year. In New York, we’re seeing a similar pattern of opioid overdoses leading to deaths. In fact, the national death rate from opioids was 13.3 per 100,000, while the death rate in New York was 15.1.
Who do opioid deaths impact the most?
In 2012, individuals aged 45 - 64 had the highest overdose rate, or opioid analgesic poisoning deaths, in New York. Males had a higher death rate from opioid poisoning than females, and residents outside of New York City had higher death rates. This information is tracked on a continual basis by the New York State Department of Health.
Are opioid deaths on the rise?
Yes. In New York, deaths from overdoses of opioids increased between 2003 and 2012, both in number and as a percentage of drug poisoning deaths. This includes both prescription medications and illegal drugs. In 2012, 914 fatalities in New York involved opioid abuse, compared to 186 deaths in 2003.
Learn More About the Opioid Crisis in New York
To learn more about the opioid crisis and other health-related topics, visit Long Island Health Collaborative’s Data Resources page.