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US drug overdose deaths dropped 27% in 2024 to 80,391, the lowest in five years, according to CDC data. This follows a surge during the COVID-19 pandemic. While synthetic opioids remain the leading cause, their deaths also decreased significantly. Experts attribute the decline to various factors, including harm reduction efforts and potential shifts in drug supply and user behavior. However, concerns remain about sustaining this progress due to proposed federal budget cuts impacting crucial prevention and treatment programs.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.