New Jersey saw a decline in drug overdose deaths across all racial and ethnic groups in 2023, a positive trend after years of rising fatalities among Black and Hispanic individuals. State data released Wednesday revealed that more than 2,800 people died from drug use in 2023, with overdoses remaining the leading cause of maternal mortality in New Jersey. Health officials credited the decline to expanded access to high-quality treatment and harm reduction services, including clean needles, smoking supplies, and naloxone. The state has authorized 53 harm reduction programs, up from seven when Governor Phil Murphy took office. Despite these positive developments, Black residents still face a higher overdose rate compared to white residents. The nationwide decline in fatal overdoses, fueled by the deadly opioid fentanyl, was mirrored in New Jersey, with deaths dropping by nearly 32% between October 2023 and 2024. The state continues to work towards addressing addiction through medication-assisted treatment and harm reduction programs to save lives and combat the ongoing overdose crisis.
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