Opioid deaths in Canada fell by 17% in 2024, but thousands still die
The latest federal figures from Canada show a decline of 17 percent in reported opioid deaths last year, according to a recent report. However, this decrease is not consistent across the country, as highlighted by the Public Health Agency of Canada’s most recent data on Opioid toxicity deaths. In 2024, an average of 20 lives were lost per day, compared to 22 deaths per day in 2023, with a total of 7,146 lives lost last year.
While there has been an apparent decrease in opioid-related deaths, the Canadian Center for Substance and Addiction (CCSA) emphasizes that the total number of deaths due to opioids in the toxic drug supply remains alarmingly high. The reasons behind the falling death rates are not fully understood, but the CCSA has suggested that the decrease in potent carfentanil and a shift from injection to inhalation consumption may be contributing factors.
Despite the encouraging decline in death rates, Samantha King, a research and policy analyst at CCSA, cautions that the numbers are still significantly higher than when British Columbia declared a public health emergency related to opioid-related overdose deaths in 2016. She emphasizes the importance of continuing to allocate resources and provide treatment for those affected by opioid use.
In terms of regional variations, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, and Yukon have seen a decrease in non-confirmed opioid deaths. However, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Northwest Territories have experienced an increase in opioid-related deaths from 2023 to 2024. Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have seen little change in the situation, according to King.
The manager of a non-profit harm reduction organization in Toronto, Kelly White, expresses concern about the ongoing deaths related to the unpredictable street drug supply. While fentanyl and carfentanil may be less common now, other substances like tranquilizers and sedatives are emerging in the market, posing new risks for users.
Dr. Monty Ghosh, an addiction specialist, is apprehensive about Canada potentially reaching a plateau in opioid overdose deaths. He stresses the need for a comprehensive approach that includes immediate access to treatment and support for individuals struggling with addiction. Ghosh also highlights the role of harm reduction strategies in preventing overdose deaths.
Overall, experts in the field emphasize the importance of addressing the evolving drug supply and the need for ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis. While there have been reductions in opioid-related deaths, there is a consensus that continued action is necessary to prevent further loss of life.
