What is the current status of the opioid crisis in British Columbia?

According to the article, overdose deaths in British Columbia have fallen sharply, down 40% from their peak in December 2023.

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BC Overdose Deaths Plummet 40% from Peak, Trades Hit Hardest

Q: Which occupations were most affected by the overdose epidemic in British Columbia?

The article states that the most common jobs among those who died were in the trades, transport, and equipment operation sectors, as well as sales and service roles.

Q: What were the primary substances detected in the overdose deaths in British Columbia?

The article reveals that fentanyl remained the most common substance detected, followed by methamphetamine and cocaine.

31 Jul

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Summary

Overdose deaths in BC down 40% from peak in December 2023
Trades, transport, and service workers most affected
Fentanyl, meth, and cocaine the top substances detected

BC Overdose Deaths Plummet 40% from Peak, Trades Hit Hardest

According to the latest data from the BC Coroners Service, overdose deaths in the province have seen a significant decline, falling nearly 40% from their peak in December 2023. In May 2025, there were 145 deaths due to toxic drugs, down from 181 in the same month the previous year. June 2025 saw a similar drop, with 147 deaths compared to 185 in June 2024.

The statistics reveal that the opioid crisis in British Columbia is easing, mirroring trends seen across much of North America. However, the data also shows that certain occupations have been hit particularly hard by the epidemic. The most common jobs among those who died were in the trades, transport, and equipment operation sectors, as well as sales and service roles.

Overall, 69% of the drug-related deaths involved men between the ages of 30 and 59, while 78% of all fatalities occurred among males. Fentanyl remained the most common substance detected, followed by methamphetamine and cocaine. The majority of deaths, 47%, took place in private residences, with 64% of victims having smoked their substances.

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