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Samantha Hayes ReportingUtah has a deadly drug problem. In 2004 190 Utahns died of drug overdoses. A lot of the victims are young.
In the first nine months of last year 67 Utahns under age 30 overdosed and died. Many were younger than 20 and from every economic level. Tonight Utahns are talking about that drug problem, specifically, what can be done about it.
Two forums met tonight, organized by the non profit group Harm Reduction Project. Health professionals, educators and community leaders attended, as well as parents and teenagers who have been personally touched by the death of loved ones.
Some of the names you may know because their stories made the news, like 18-year old Amelia Sorich found dead in a canyon after a heroin and cocaine overdose.
Michael Bellows, LDS Bishop: “She was just a sweet, sweet spirit.”
Or 19-year old John Philips. He also overdosed on heroin.
Peter Philips, Father: “This shouldn’t be in the closet.”
In both cases no one called for help, at least not soon enough.
Jack Plumb, Father: “We have a real problem and challenge in Salt Lake City.”
Jack Plumb lost his son to heroin 10 years ago.
Jack Plumb: “It’s something that touches every one of us. It comes from the highest east side and the lowest and the best addresses in the valley.”
Dr. Steve Jenison has been addressing the problem in New Mexico, which has the highest overdose death rate in the country. He says active outreach programs make a difference.
Dr. Steve Jenison, New Mexico Department of Health: “Looking at the particular issues here and developing a plan for the community."
In the cases of Amelia Sorich and John Philips, the antidote Nalaxone could have saved their lives.
Dr. Steve Jenison: “It’s a drug that can reverse the effects of a heroin overdose in seconds and get people breathing again.”
But not enough people know about it. Sharing crucial information is the goal.
Christy Porucznik, Utah Dept. of Health Epidemiologist: “Drug overdose is an increasing problem in Utah. We are seeing more overdose deaths every year. In 2004 there were 397 overdoses investigated, the most we've seen in one year."
State legislation is being crafted that would make it a federal offense for someone to witness a drug overdose and not call for help.
