Record Decline in Los Angeles Drug Overdose Deaths

There’s good news in the opioid crisis, as LA County drug overdose deaths decline by 22% in 2024. A recent MSN article reports this is the most dramatic drop the County has seen according to the Department of Public Health. The data also show a 37% decrease in fentanyl deaths and a 20% decline in methamphetamine fatalities.

A Multi-Faceted Mission

The good news comes in the wake of a recent CDC report announcing an unexpected and unprecedented decline in drug overdoses nationwide. It’s interesting to note that in California, while the number of overdose deaths have stayed roughly the same throughout 2024 for cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines, the number of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids have steadily dropped throughout the year.

The news may have some in the community scratching their heads over the seemingly sudden and sharp drop in substance-related overdose deaths. LA County officials believe the percentages are a result of expansive prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery investments.

Although this news is positive and moving in the right direction, there is still a long way to go. These trends do not reflect Black residents and those living in poverty. Drug use overall is heaviest among people who make $10,000 to $19,999 per year, and so are drug-related ER visits according to Rehab.com’s Drug Stats report. Reviewing the data, it is clear that maintaining appropriate and balanced support with inclusivity in mind is crucial.

Maintaining the Momentum Across LA County

The most common drug-related overdose fatalities still involved fentanyl, but the accidental death rate dropped from 64% in 2023 to 52% in 2024. This news illustrates the County’s commitment to public health with comprehensive treatment methods that address all aspects of recovery.

The County isn’t finished yet, though. Now the focus is on expanding naloxone distribution and increasing support for the community’s youth. The efforts are now moving forward to provide culturally sensitive treatment that ensures no one who needs help is left behind.

The progress may be a result of the community platform, ByLAforLA.org, which is in place to expand funding strategies to assist with these initiatives. The residents working to help provide fentanyl testing kits and Narcan accessibility believe the job is nowhere near complete.

The goal is to arm everyone in the area with the appropriate tools and resources to overcome addiction and have hope for a healthy, productive and positive life.If you or someone you love is experiencing addiction in the Los Angeles area, you can recover.

Call 800-985-8516 ( Sponsored Helpline ) today to get immediate and personalized support.