The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published updated provisional drug overdose death counts.
Overall, drug overdoses declined in 2024, with 105,511 reported deaths so far in January, and 79, 526 reported so far in December. Nationwide, drug overdoses declined about 27% in 2024, according to the data. The CDC says this “suggests more than 81 lives saved every day.”
The CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control published the following statement regarding the data:
“Since late 2023, overdose deaths have steadily declined each month—a strong sign that public health interventions are making a difference and having a meaningful impact.
Despite these overall improvements, overdose remains the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to maintain this progress. Through sustained funding to support prevention and surveillance activities like the Overdose Data to Action program, we will continue moving toward a future in which Americans no longer lose their lives to drug overdoses.
CDC remains steadfast in its commitment to preventing substance use disorders before they begin, expanding access to treatment, and strengthening recovery pathways to build a healthier future for all Americans.”
