Trends in alcoholism and narcotics abuse from medical examiner data

To determine trends in alcoholism and narcotics abuse, New Jersey State Medical Examiner cases from Essex County of those age 12 or older during three consecutive 12-month periods from October 1981 to September 1984 (years 1, 2 and 3) were analyzed. Cases were classified as alcoholics or narcotics abusers according to the following criteria: any case record report of drinking problems or narcotics abuse, alcoholism or narcotics abuse indicated in the manner or cause of death or autopsy findings of liver change or pancreatitis due to alcoholism, or toxicology findings of narcotics (unless medically prescribed). The age-eligible cases decreased from 710 in year 1 to 691 in year 2 and 643 in year 3. Decedents classified as alcoholics rose from 18% in year 1 to 25% in years 2 and 3. The proportions classified as narcotic abusers and those with both conditions were relatively constant, averaging 7 and 5%, respectively, over the 3 years. Substance abuse itself was the manner of death for alcoholics and most of those with both conditions; 38% of the narcotics abusers were homicide victims. There were no appreciable demographic changes among substance abusers during this period.