Overdose deaths have declined for the third consecutive year, with a 30.2% decline in 2024.
According to the 2024 Kentucky Drug Overdose Fatality Report, 1,410 Kentuckians lost their lives to drug overdose—a tragic number, yet a significant decrease that reflects continued progress in saving lives across the Commonwealth. Among the success stories in the report are the number of Black Kentucky residents, who saw a 37.3% decline- the first recorded decrease for this population.
Fentanyl was present in 62.3% of all overdose deaths, and methamphetamine was present in 50.8% of overdose deaths. The two continue to be the most prevalent drugs contributing to overdose deaths in the state. The report also indicates that most Kentucky age groups saw a decrease in overdose deaths, with the only increase being among those ages 75-84.
“I am thankful that more Kentuckians are alive and in recovery today compared with last year,” Governor Andy Beshear said. “But we still mourn and grieve our 1,410 Kentuckians who lost their life last year to addiction and the many more who we lost before that. Every life lost is a child of God, and someone’s mom, dad, son, daughter and loved one. We won’t stop until every Kentuckian is saved from addiction.”
In 2023, Kentucky reported a 9.8% decrease from 2022. In 2022, there was a decrease of 2.5% from 2021, marking the first year Kentucky saw a decrease in overdose deaths since 2018. By working together, the Governor said, Kentucky is saving lives.
“Today’s announcement is made possible by every state agency, local community, health department, addiction treatment program, and advocate who has put politics aside and fought for our Kentuckians to obtain recovery. Thank you for moving Kentucky forward and doing this good work,” said Office of Drug Control Policy Executive Director Van Ingram. “If you are a family member of one of the Kentuckians who lost their lives to an overdose last year, we are praying for you and will continue this work in your loved one’s honor.”
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