There’s some hopeful news in the fight against substance use disorders—new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a significant decline in drug overdose deaths across the U.S.
According to provisional numbers from the CDC’s National Vital Statistics System, drug overdose deaths dropped nearly 24% in the 12 months leading up to September 2024, compared to the previous year. This marks one of the most significant declines in recent years, signaling progress in efforts to combat substance use and improve access to treatment.
While challenges remain, this downward trend is a promising sign that prevention, education, treatment, and support services are making an impact.
