Along with the rest of the country, North Carolina experienced a sharp increase in drug overdose deaths since 2019, largely due to the opioid epidemic, and more recently involving a preponderance of poisonings from illegally manufactured fentanyl. 

Although overdose death rates showed a slight drop in 2023, total death rates remain above 2019 levels. The graph shows an increase of overdose deaths for all of the state's races/ethnicities since 2016, with 2023 age-adjusted rates ranging from 108.7% for American Indican/Alaska Native (non-Hispanic) to 4.5% in 2023 for Asian/PI (non-Hispanic). 

Caution should be used in interpreting rates for American Indian/Alaskan Native, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Hispanic due to small number effect.

Definition:

Number of persons in North Carolina who die as a result of drug poisoning per 100,000 population, adjusted by age.

Why is this Important?

Substance misuse is a chronic condition, requiring ongoing care and treatment for individuals to regain and maintain health and recovery.

This chronic condition affects the individual’s relationship with family and community. It can impair  ability to attend school or work and negatively impacts both physical and mental health. It can also lead to social complications and negative interactions with the justice system. [HNC2030]

Additional Information:

The Drug Poisoning Death Rate indicator is aligned with HNC2030.

References and Links:

North Carolina's Opioid and Substance Use Action Plan | NCDHHS

HNC-REPORT-FINAL-Spread2.pdf