The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the scale of Vermont’s drug crisis. In 2023, the state reported 253 overdose deaths, translating to an age-adjusted rate of 40.7 per 100,000 residents. This places Vermont in the top third of states for drug overdose death rates, underscoring the significant challenges the state continues to face.
Substance-Specific Trends
Opioids were the leading contributors to Vermont’s overdose deaths, with 88.9% of cases involving at least one opioid. Among these, illegally-made fentanyls were the most commonly detected substances. Stimulants played a major role as well, contributing to 66.4% of deaths, with cocaine being the most prevalent stimulant involved.
Polysubstance use was a recurring theme. Combinations of illegally-made fentanyls and cocaine accounted for 41.1% of Vermont’s overdose deaths. Other combinations, including fentanyls with prescription opioids or methamphetamine, were also present, though in smaller proportions.
Demographic Trends
Men accounted for the majority (73.5%) of overdose deaths in Vermont. The highest mortality rates were seen among individuals aged 35-44, who recorded a staggering 154.1 deaths per 100,000 residents. Vermont’s overdose deaths were also disproportionately high among White, non-Hispanic residents, reflecting the state’s demographic makeup.
Missed Interventions
According to the CDC, 92.5% of Vermont’s overdose deaths had at least one potential opportunity for intervention:
- 60.9% of decedents had a diagnosed mental health issue.
- 54.2% had a bystander present at the time of overdose.
- 31.6% had experienced a prior overdose.
These findings point to systemic gaps in identifying and addressing risk factors before fatalities occur.
Comparative Standing
At 40.7 deaths per 100,000 residents, Vermont ranks in the top third of states for drug overdose death rates. While the state’s rate is not as severe as in the District of Columbia (100.3) or West Virginia (79.5), it far surpasses states with the lowest rates, such as Nebraska (6.9 per 100,000). Vermont’s figures highlight its position among states significantly affected by the overdose epidemic.
Policy and Enforcement Implications
Vermont’s persistently high death rates suggest that current efforts to combat the crisis are insufficient. A greater focus on enforcement against the distribution of illicit substances, particularly fentanyl, may be necessary. The prominence of stimulant-related deaths also signals the need for targeted strategies to address cocaine and methamphetamine use.
Conclusion
The CDC’s 2023 data underscores the urgency of addressing Vermont’s overdose epidemic. With high rates of opioid and stimulant involvement, Vermont must evaluate its existing strategies and consider new approaches to tackle this growing public health crisis.
For more details, visit the CDC’s SUDORS Dashboard: https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/data-research/facts-stats/sudors-dashboard-fatal-overdose-data.html.
Dave Soulia | FYIVT
You can find FYIVT on YouTube | X(Twitter) | Facebook | Parler (@fyivt) | Gab | Instagram
#fyivt #vermont #overdosecrisis #cdcdata
Support Us for as Little as $5 – Get In The Fight!!
Make a Big Impact with $25/month—Become a Premium Supporter!
Join the Top Tier of Supporters with $50/month—Become a SUPER Supporter!
Leave a Reply