South Carolina sees decline in overdose deaths

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South Carolina Department of Public Health

Photo: South Carolina Department of Public Health

(WPDE) — For the first time in over a decade, South Carolina is seeing a decline in overdose deaths.

The 2023 Drug Overdose Deaths Report said there were 2,157 drug overdose deaths in the state in 2023.

This was a 6.1% decrease from the 2,296 drug overdose deaths in 2022.

As we’ve watched the overdose epidemic’s impact across the United States and within our state, DPH and our partners have worked determinedly to build programs and offer resources to curtail substance misuse and prevent overdose deaths in our state,” said Dr. Edward Simmer, interim DPH director. “This data reflects our hard work and shows our state heading in the right direction. While we celebrate this achievement, we still have a long way to go in our efforts to reduce drug overdose deaths in our state.

The last time our state saw a decrease in drug overdose deaths was in 2012, according to S.C. Department of Public Health.

Despite statistics from the state overall, there were drug overdose death increases in 15 South Carolina counties including: Aiken, Charleston, Chester, Chesterfield, Colleton, Dorchester, Georgetown, Horry, Jasper, Lancaster, Marlboro, Newberry, Oconee, Williamsburg and York.

There was over a 50% increase in Chesterfield and Colleton counties and over a 100% increase in Marlboro County.

SCDPH said Fentanyl was involved in 1,550 of the state’s 2023 drug overdose deaths.

Implementing evidence-based strategies that enhance prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts yields results,” said Sara Goldsby, South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) director. “The supplemental federal funds that South Carolina has received in recent years have been instrumental in expanding access to treatment and recovery services, increasing prevention initiatives, and strengthening community-based support systems. These resources have allowed us to take a more comprehensive approach to addressing the overdose crisis and improving outcomes for individuals and families across the state.

There are resources available to those struggling with substance abuse issues.