PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — New data shows overdoses are on the decline in Rhode Island.
New data from the state’s Overdose Prevention and Intervention Task Force shows a drop from the first six months of 2024 compared to the same time in 2023.
The task force met on Wednesday to review accidental drug-related deaths and go over solutions.
Last year, Rhode Island had its lowest number of overdoses since 2020 with deaths involving fentanyl notably decreasing.
The news comes as many recognize January as Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, which is meant to raise awareness and find help for those struggling with substance abuse.
Data shows 192 people died of an accidental overdose in the first six months of 2024, compared to 215 people in the same time frame of 2023. That’s an 11% drop.
The data also showed a decrease in fatal overdoses caused by illicit drugs, like heroin, but an increase in overdoses involving prescription drugs, which rose from 11% in 2023 to 16% in 2024.
There was also a significant decrease in the amount of opioid and fentanyl overdoses. The task force says those played a role in 87% of deaths in the first six months of 2023 but dropped to 71% in the first six months of 2024.