CDC: Drug overdose deaths fell 5.1% in 2018

Drug overdose deaths declined 5.1% in 2018 to about 68,000, according to preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s compared with more than 70,000 in 2017. The report does not break down overdose deaths by drug category. “While the declining trend of overdose deaths is an encouraging sign, by no means have we declared victory against the epidemic or addiction in general,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar. “This crisis developed over two decades and it will not be solved overnight. We also face other emerging threats, like concerning trends in cocaine and methamphetamine overdoses.”