CHARLESTON, West Virginia – According to preliminary 2021 statistics, drug overdose deaths in West Virginia continue to be a major problem, with an increase in deaths involving fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other substances. It is important to note that these numbers may change due to delayed reporting of death information, and death certificates are still under review. The data also indicate that a high percentage of drug overdose deaths in the state involve at least one opioid as a contributing factor.
The analysis completed by the Health Statistics Center in September 2022 reveals that fentanyl and fentanyl analogues were involved in 76% of all drug overdose deaths in West Virginia in 2021, compared to 58% in 2017. Additionally, methamphetamine-related deaths have increased substantially, accounting for 52.2% of drug overdose deaths in 2021 as compared to 22.8% in 2017. On the other hand, the proportion of drug overdose deaths involving heroin has declined over the 5-year period.
The trend in drug overdose deaths is no longer driven by prescription opioids such as hydrocodone and oxycodone. As a result, it is crucial for policymakers and healthcare professionals to address the growing concerns related to fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other substances to effectively combat the crisis.
Similar patterns are seen among West Virginia residents, with increases in drug overdose deaths related to fentanyl and methamphetamine. The high percentage of drug overdose deaths among West Virginia residents involve at least one opioid as contributing to the death, indicating the severity of the opioid crisis within the state.
It is evident that effective measures and interventions are needed to address the rise in drug overdose deaths involving fentanyl and methamphetamine in West Virginia. These statistics serve as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgency of implementing strategies to combat the opioid crisis and prevent further loss of life within the state.