Reducing Overdoses Among African American Individuals in Ohio: An Emerging Public Health Crisis

The drug overdose death rate is a major public health crisis with overdoses now being considered a leading cause of death within the United States, including in Ohio. Currently, opioid overdoses primarily involve heroin, fentanyl, and other drugs such as cocaine and MDMA laced with fentanyl. Of particular concern has been the recent demographic shift regarding those who overdose. Opioid overdoses are increasing at a disproportionately higher rate among African American individuals as compared to individuals in other racial and ethnic populations. A public health approach is needed to address the rising epidemic of opioid overdoses impacting African American individuals. Such an approach would comprise a comprehensive and coordinated strategy in providing prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery services to achieve a sustainable public health impact.