Deaths, hospitalizations, and emergency department (ED) visits due to medication or drug overdose, have become a growing public health concern nationally and in North Carolina.  In 2018, Stanly County had some of the highest rates for overdose and overdose death in the state.  

Historically, prescription opioids have been a major driver of this epidemic. However, illicit drugs are now contributing to this problem in increasing numbers. The majority of overdose deaths now involve illicit opioids like heroin or fentanyl, a synthetic narcotic. The number of overdose deaths involving stimulants is also on the rise.

Source: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services - Division of Public Health. (2022). Injury and Violence Prevention Branch: Overdose data. Retrieved August 26, 2022 from https://injuryfreenc.dph.ncdhhs.gov/DataSurveillance/overdose.htm