Updated Drug and Alcohol Statistics for Maryland
In This Article
Maryland has been grappling with the devastating effects of drug and alcohol addiction for years. The state has seen a concerning rise in substance abuse, particularly among youth, along with high rates of drug overdose deaths. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the current state of drug and alcohol use in Maryland, highlighting the most shocking statistics and the challenges faced in treatment and recovery.
- In 2021, approximately 75% of drug overdose deaths in Maryland involved at least one opioid, with 66% involving synthetic opioids.
- Fentanyl was involved in more than 85% of overdose cases in Maryland in 2021.
- There has been a 30% increase in alcohol use and a 37% increase in drug use among some Maryland high school students.
Substance Use and Disorders
Illicit drug use has been a significant issue in Maryland. In 2009-2010, around 8.11% of residents reported using illicit drugs in the past month1. The state has also been hit hard by drug-related deaths, with 768 drug-induced deaths in 2009, surpassing the national rate1.
Alcohol Use and Related Issues
Excessive drinking has taken a toll on Maryland residents, with death rates from alcohol-related causes rising significantly between 2000 and 20192. In 2021, 17.3% of adults in the state reported binge drinking2.
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Overdose Deaths
From October 2022 to September 2023, Maryland witnessed 2,513 fatal overdoses, marking a 1.4% decrease from the previous 12 months3. Despite this slight decline, the number of lives lost to overdoses remains alarmingly high.
- In 2021, approximately 75% of drug overdose deaths involved at least one opioid, with 66% involving synthetic opioids4.
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Youth Substance Use
The rise in substance use among Maryland’s youth is particularly concerning. Some high school students in the state have reported a 30% increase in alcohol use and a 37% increase in drug use5.
Fentanyl-Related Overdose Deaths
Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, has been a major contributor to the overdose crisis in Maryland. In 2021, fentanyl was involved in more than 85% of overdose cases6.
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Community and Prevention
Research indicates that youth in Maryland are more likely to have used drugs in the last month compared to national rates7. This highlights the need for targeted prevention efforts to address substance use among young people in the state.
Treatment and Recovery
It is estimated that a significant percentage of Marylanders above the age of twelve suffer from substance use disorders8. This underscores the importance of accessible and effective treatment and recovery services in the state.
The drug and alcohol crisis in Maryland has far-reaching consequences, affecting individuals, families, and communities across the state. By understanding the scope of the problem and the specific challenges faced, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations can work together to develop targeted interventions and support systems. With a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, treatment, and recovery services, Maryland can make strides in addressing this public health emergency and saving lives.
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Related Articles
- Maryland Drug Control Update. Executive Office of the President of the United States, 2010.
- Drinking In Excess. America’s Health Rankings, 2021.
- Maryland Department of Health – Unintentional Drug- and Alcohol-Related Intoxication Deaths Dashboard. Maryland Department of Health, 2023.
- Preventing Opioid Misuse in Maryland. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022.
- 2021 Maryland Youth Pandemic Behavior Survey. Maryland Department of Health, 2021.
- A Closer Look at Maryland’s Opioid and Non-Opioid Drug Numbers. Pyramid Healthcare, 2021.
- Maryland’s opioid epidemic by the numbers. WBALTV, 2022.
- Maryland Youth Substance Abuse Report. Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 2016.
