Opioid-Related Deaths in Eastern Ontario from 2011 to 2016

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• The opioid crisis presents a significant public health challenge in North America.
• Understanding regional trends in opioid-related deaths is vital for targeted prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze trends in opioid-related deaths in Eastern Ontario from 2011-2016.
• To identify demographic risk factors and specific opioids contributing to these fatalities.
• To inform the development of effective prevention strategies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of autopsy and toxicology data.
• Examination of opioid types, non-opioid drug use, age distribution, and manner of death.
• Inclusion criteria: 274 opioid-related deaths from the Eastern Ontario Regional Forensic Pathology Unit.

Main Results:

• Fentanyl was the most common opioid involved in deaths.
• Hydromorphone involvement demonstrated a statistically significant increase over the study period.
• The most affected age group was 45-54 years, with a notable rise in older age groups (55+).
• Accidental overdose was the leading manner of death, except in individuals aged 65+, where suicide predominated.
• Widespread co-use of antidepressants and benzodiazepines was observed.

Conclusions:

• Opioid-related mortality trends in Eastern Ontario highlight the persistent role of fentanyl and the concerning rise of hydromorphone.
• Demographic analysis indicates specific age and gender risk factors.
• Co-ingestion of other central nervous system depressants is common and requires consideration in prevention efforts.