New data shows increase in overdose deaths for 2023 in Alaska

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an increase in overdose deaths within the state of Alaska despite the national decrease reported for 2023.

According to the CDC, reported overdose deaths in 2022 totaled 247 which rose to 356 in 2023. The state showed an estimated 44% increase, ranking the highest out of all 50 states. Opioids were the leading drug class, causing about 70% of the drug overdose deaths in the state.

As for the national data, it showed a decrease in overdose deaths, thus exhibiting progress. The CDC, along with their partners, have coordinated federal efforts for prevention, services and harm reduction. This was a part of the Biden Administration’s Overdose Prevention Strategy aimed at treating addiction and saving lives.

However, the data CDC reported shows 100,000 lives lost just last year to drug overdoses. The CDC has stated they are committed to doing what they can to end this epidemic and prevent unnecessary death and suffering.

The full report with data from the CDC can be accessed here.

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