SAN JOSE, Calif. – Recent data from the Center for Disease Control reveals a slight decrease in overdose deaths nationwide, marking a hopeful trend in the ongoing battle against the drug epidemic.

Declining Trends

The CDC estimates a 3% decrease in overdose deaths from 2022 to 2023, offering a glimmer of optimism amid decades of escalating drug-related fatalities. This marks only the second yearly decline since the inception of the national drug crisis over 30 years ago.

Local Perspective

Despite the national downturn, Santa Clara County witnessed a concerning uptick in overdose fatalities, with deaths rising from 195 in 2022 to 228 in 2023. Dr. Cheryl Ho from the Santa Clara Co. Behavioral Health Dept. emphasizes the continued severity of the crisis and the necessity for sustained intervention efforts.

Combating the Crisis

Dr. Ho highlights the county’s multifaceted approach to addressing the drug crisis, including enhanced prevention, harm reduction, and treatment initiatives. These concerted efforts aim to mitigate the devastating impact of substance abuse within the community.

Changing Dynamics

Dean Shold, co-founder of FentCheck, underscores shifting patterns in opioid use, noting an increase among younger demographics with limited prior exposure to such substances. This evolving landscape underscores the need for comprehensive prevention strategies.

Urgent Action Required

While Narcan administration has saved countless lives, Shold emphasizes the imperative of proactive measures to prevent overdoses at their root. FentCheck’s provision of fentanyl test strips and Narcan reflects a grassroots effort to empower communities in combating substance abuse.

For more information on Narcan distribution in Santa Clara County and access to FentCheck fentanyl testing strips, visit their respective websites or call 9-8-8 for immediate assistance.

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