DRUG overdose deaths in Australia are on the rise, with over 38,000 drug-induced fatalities reported since 2002.
The new 2024 Annual Overdose Report highlighted that 2,356 drug-induced deaths occurred in 2022, resulting in an estimated 69,815 years of life lost, with an average of 31 years lost per death.
Of these, 1,878 were unintentional or accidental, a figure that has exceeded the national road toll since 2014.
Unintentional drug-induced deaths have increased by 108% since 2002, far outpacing the 20.4% growth in Australia's population.
This is now a leading cause of death for many adults, particularly those aged 30-49.
The report said drug-induced deaths are now the second leading cause of death in men aged 30-39 and women aged 40-49.
The report highlights significant disparities, with Indigenous Australians, rural and regional residents, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds experiencing higher rates of unintentional drug-induced deaths.
Among the elderly, the rise in unintentional drug-induced deaths is stark, with those aged 50 and above showing the greatest increase since 2002.
Opioids are the most common drugs involved in these deaths, particularly among older Australians, according to the report.
Polypharmacy is prevalent, particularly in older age groups, with opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants frequently detected.
The report also underscored the ongoing impact of non-fatal drug- and alcohol-related harm, with over 135,000 related hospitalisations and 159,000 ambulance attendances in 2022. JG
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 27 Aug 24
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 27 Aug 24
