Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
HOUSTON — In a recent study highlighting the severity of drug overdose fatalities, Utah has emerged as one of the states with the lowest rates of fatal drug overdoses. This encouraging news places Utah fifth from the bottom among all states, with a rate of 18.5 fatalities per 100,000 people.
The study, conducted by addiction treatment specialists at Amethyst Recovery Center, analyzed data from the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The results revealed that West Virginia tops the list with the highest rate of fatal overdoses at 75.3 deaths per 100,000 people, followed by Tennessee and Delaware. In contrast, South Dakota reported the fewest overdose deaths, with Utah ranking low in comparison.
States with the Most Fatal Drug Overdoses
- West Virginia: 75.3 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Tennessee: 54.3 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Delaware: 53.9 deaths per 100,000 people
- Louisiana: 51.8 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Maine: 50.8 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Kentucky: 50.3 deaths per 100,000 people
- New Mexico: 48.5 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Ohio: 43.7 deaths per 100,000 people;
- South Carolina: 43.1 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Vermont: 42.7 deaths per 100,000 people;
States with the Lowest Rates of Fatal Drug Overdoses
- South Dakota: 10.4 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Nebraska: 11.4 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Iowa: 14.7 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Texas: 18.3 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Utah: 18.5 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Montana: 18.5 deaths per 100,000 people;
- North Dakota: 19.0 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Hawaii: 19.7 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Idaho: 19.9 deaths per 100,000 people;
- Arkansas: 20.3 deaths per 100,000 people;
The path to recovery
Despite the overall increase in drug overdose deaths across the nation — reaching a record high of 107,941 in 2022 — the study highlights significant disparities between states. Nicholas Bellofatto, Director of Admissions for Amethyst Recovery Center, explained that several factors contribute to these differences, including socioeconomic conditions, drug availability, and medical prescribing practices.
"The opioid epidemic remains a critical issue, with opioids accounting for approximately 75% of all overdose deaths," Bellofatto stated. "Factors such as high prescription rates and socioeconomic challenges exacerbate the problem in certain areas."
Relatively low rates of fatal overdoses can be attributed to robust prevention, treatment and rehabilitation efforts. These initiatives are vital in combating the opioid crisis and supporting those affected by substance abuse.
Bellofatto emphasized the importance of seeking professional help for addiction.
"Whether you are struggling yourself or helping a loved one, professional support is crucial. There are numerous substance abuse treatment facilities and recovery centers equipped to provide the necessary help," Bellofatto said.
The findings underscore the critical need for ongoing support and resources to address drug addiction effectively. By continuing to invest in prevention and treatment programs, states with lower overdose deaths can serve as models for reducing those fatalities.
