Georgia has been facing a serious opioid crisis for over ten years, which reflects a national increase in overdose deaths. From 2010 to 2022, opioid-related overdose deaths in Georgia rose by 302%. Initially, this crisis was mostly due to the misuse of prescription opioids, but lately, it has been driven by illegal opioids, especially fentanyl, which is a powerful synthetic opioid. Between 2019 and 2022, fentanyl-related overdose deaths increased by 308%, from 392 to 1,601. By 2022, fentanyl and synthetic opioids were involved in 64% of all overdose deaths in the state. The overdose death rate in Georgia hit its peak in 2022, recording 25 deaths per 100,000 residents, the highest since 1999. Although this rate is lower than the national average, the effect on local communities has been severe. In 2020, drug overdoses became the leading cause of premature death in Georgia. However, there is some positive news. Preliminary data from the CDC shows about a 22% drop in drug overdose deaths in Georgia for the year ending September 2024 compared to the previous year. The Georgia Department of Public Health is closely tracking overdose trends to inform prevention efforts. Initiatives include increasing access to naloxone, supporting peer services, and funding treatment programs. Despite the encouraging decline, the opioid crisis remains a major public health issue, requiring ongoing efforts to continue the progress seen recently.
Sources: CDC / Georgia DPH
