Fraser Valley/Vancouver — In the recent report from the BC Coroner on illicit drug overdose deaths, the numbers have remained consistent.
120 OD deaths in November 2018 maintains the 4 a day overage death toll in BC (The 3-4 a day — per month, has been consistent since 2016)
In 2018, Abbotsford had 37 OD deaths from illicit drugs, Chilliwack with 33. Maple Ridge with 27.
This is a 13% increase over the number of deaths occurring in November 2017 (106) and a 9% increase over the number of deaths occurring in October 2018 (110).
In 2018, 71% of those dying were aged 30 to 59; individuals aged 19-59 have accounted for 91% of illicit drug overdose deaths. Males accounted for 80% of all suspected illicit drug overdose deaths over the same period.
Preliminary data suggests that the proportion of illicit drug overdose deaths for which illicit fentanyl was detected (alone or in combination with other drugs)was approximately 82% in 2017and 85% in 2018(data up to September 30, 2018).
Illicit fentanyl–detected deaths appear to account for the increase in illicit drug overdose deaths since 2012 as the number of illicit drug overdose deaths excluding fentanyl-detected has remained relatively stable since 2011 (average of 292deaths per year). This data is subject to change as further analogue testing results become available.
