Deadly Heroin [Infographic]

Every year, thousands of Americans die from drug overdoses. While there are many drugs that can lead to fatalities, heroin deaths per year are among the most problematic. Take a closer look at just how many lives are lost each year as a result of heroin addiction and overdose.

Heroin Overdose Fatalities Sextupled

In a brief 13 year span leading up to 2014, the number of heroin fatalities skyrocketed annually. Overdoses were previously killing around 2,000 heroin addicts each year, but that number grew each year to eventually become nearly 11,000. This upward trajectory is worrying. Although awareness about heroin overdoses is growing, overdose numbers still climb.

5 States Where Heroin Deaths Per Year are Most Likely

Heroin addiction can happen anywhere. However, certain states are home to higher addiction rates as well as subsequent overdose deaths. In states like West Virginia, New Hampshire, Ohio, Kentucky and Rhode Island, there is the greatest need for drug and alcohol detox as well as heroin addiction rehab.

Annual Heroin Overdose Rates Hover Around 13,000

The most recent full year of collected data shows that in America alone, more than 13,000 people died as a result of an overdose from heroin. This is caused primarily by two reasons: weakened bodies and increased tolerance.

As a person’s heroin addiction progresses, their tolerance also rises. This necessitates larger doses of heroin and this can lead to overdose.

In addition, long-term addiction weakens everything from the immune system to the heart. Overdose is stressful and those with weakened bodies are less likely to survive the impact of a heroin overdose.

Women Growing Increasingly Likely to Die From a Heroin Overdose

In the last few years alone, women have become three times more likely to die as a result of a heroin overdose. This is growing in tandem with the increasing number of women who try, abuse and become addicted to heroin.

Middle-Aged Males Most Likely Group to Die From Heroin

The signs of heroin use can impact people of any sex, ethnicity or age. However, there is no denying that men between the ages of 25 and 44 are the ones most likely to become addicted to heroin and suffer from a heroin overdose as a result.

Take action today to avoid another deadly heroin overdose. Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, offers heroin rehab and detox programs to beat addiction for good. Contact us at 866.605.0532 to begin the road to recovery.