What percentage of Americans view opioid overdose deaths as serious?

Approximately 88% of U.S. adults view opioid overdose deaths as a very serious problem.

Who do Americans hold responsible for opioid overdose deaths?

A majority of Americans believe pharmaceutical companies share responsibility for opioid overdose deaths, alongside individuals who use opioids.

Has the number of U.S. opioid OD deaths decreased?

Yes, U.S. opioid OD deaths dropped by nearly 27% from 2023 to 2024.

Home / Health / Americans Unite: Opioid Crisis Deaths a Serious Concern

Americans Unite: Opioid Crisis Deaths a Serious Concern

22 Jan

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Summary

Nearly 90% of US adults view opioid overdose deaths as a very serious problem.
A majority of Americans hold pharmaceutical companies responsible.
Stigma persists, with many unwilling to accept neighbors with addiction.

Americans Unite: Opioid Crisis Deaths a Serious Concern

A recent study reveals a striking consensus among U.S. adults regarding the opioid overdose crisis. Nearly nine out of ten Americans, spanning the political spectrum, consider opioid overdose deaths a very serious issue. This widespread concern extends to accountability, with a majority believing pharmaceutical companies share responsibility, not solely blaming individuals who use opioids.

The research, which surveyed 1,552 adults nationwide, indicated that 88% viewed opioid overdose deaths as a critical problem. Support for holding pharmaceutical companies accountable was strong across political lines, with 83% of liberals, 71% of moderates, and 66% of conservatives agreeing. This contrasts with the belief that individuals using opioids are most responsible, cited by 81% overall.