Premature Opioid-Related Deaths Doubled in Canada Between 2019 and 2021, Study Finds
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reveals a troubling trend in Canada – the rate of opioid-related deaths has doubled between 2019 and 2021. More than 1 in 4 deaths among young adults aged 20 to 39 are now attributable to opioids, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
According to the research, conducted by scientists at Unity Health in Toronto, the number of opioid-related deaths has continued to rise over the past decade, with an estimated 6,222 deaths in 2021 alone. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this problem, with certain provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba experiencing significant increases in deaths, especially among younger populations.
The unregulated supply of drugs has been cited as a primary factor driving these alarming statistics, as the pandemic has made the drug supply even more unpredictable. Without adequate investments in treatment and harm reduction programs, as well as broader social supports like housing, these preventable deaths are taking a devastating toll on communities across the country.
Researchers analyzed data on accidental deaths due to opioid toxicity in 9 provinces and territories in Canada, revealing a stark increase in the number of deaths from 2019 to 2021. The amount of years of life lost due to premature opioid-related deaths has more than doubled, reaching over a quarter of a million in 2021.
“This scale of opioid-related harm, particularly among young people, is unprecedented and illustrates the scope of this public health crisis across the country,” said Shaleesa Ledlie from the University of Toronto. In Alberta, nearly half of all deaths among people aged 20 to 39 were linked to opioids, further underscoring the severity of the crisis.
Despite efforts to reopen health and social care services in recent years, rates of opioid-related deaths remain high across Canada. Urgent action is needed to work with communities to increase services and support for those who use drugs, in order to prevent further loss of life due to opioid addiction.