The latest federal drug overdose death data show Kentucky rates have continued worsening throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released the latest overdose death numbers earlier this month. From March 2020 through March 2021, approximately 2,200 Kentuckians died from overdoses. Kentucky has seen one of the largest increases in overdose deaths in the nation since the pandemic began.
It’s estimated more than 99,000 people died from drug overdoses in the U.S. during the same 12 month period.
In a statement, Acting Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy Regina LaBelle said the numbers show the need for Congress to fund President Biden’s request — which would make substance use treatment, prevention and recovery services more accessible.
