Opiate Related Overdoses and Health Outcomes in Ohio

Introduction: In Ohio, an average of 8 people die from overdoses every day, with a record of 3,050 people killed in Ohio in 2015. With one of the highest overdose rates in the nation, Ohio has been particularly impacted by the nationwide opiate epidemic. In addition to overdoses, Ohio had a 400% increase in reported rates of Hepatitis C between 2009-2013. The health consequences of opiate use are evident throughout the state.

Methods: A secondary data analysis was employed using data from the 2000 to 2016 Ohio Substance Abuse Monitoring System. This mixed methods study is conducted every six months in the Toledo, Cleveland, Youngstown, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron-Canton, and Athens region of Ohio. Regional epidemiologists gather information on availability, price, purity, and methods of use from consumers. Data triangulation is achieved through survey administration and semi-structured interviews with substance use treatment providers and law enforcement.

Results: Prescription opiates remain highly associated with drug overdose deaths in Ohio. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office in Cleveland reported that almost 50% of the 172 drug overdose deaths in the last six months of 2015 involved prescription opiates. Intravenous injection was the most commonly reported current method of use for heroin in Ohio. Intranasal inhalation appeared to be increasing in use in 2000, however, has since decreased as a preferred method of administration. Needles are currently accessible from retail stores, pharmacies, needle exchange programs, drug dealers, and diabetics, however participants continue to engage in needle sharing practices. Hepatitis C and HIV are a concern among heroin users. Presented data will show changes in trends over the sixteen year time span.

Conclusions: Understanding the trends in heroin use and administration, including related health consequences from heroin use (e.g., Hepatitis C, HIV), is necessary in order to develop prevention strategies that are consistent with changes in heroin use. Findings can inform local and state preventive policies aimed at addressing heroin use and opiate-related overdoses.