Deaths from overdoses in Maryland decreased nearly 40% in 2024, according to preliminary state data.
Maryland recorded 1,553 fatal overdoses in 2024. That’s 38% lower than the 2,511 fatal overdoses the state recorded in 2023.
Last year was also the first time since 2015 that fewer than 2,000 people had died from overdoses in Maryland. In 2015, the state recorded 1,259 fatal overdoses.
The 2024 data is considered preliminary because final numbers are pending the outcome of a small number of death investigations, according to state officials.
“The decrease in fatal overdoses that we’re seeing in Maryland is historic, and it’s proof that our investments in behavioral health and substance use care and the incredible efforts of people all around our state are paying off,” Gov. Wes Moore said in a statement.
But Moore said there is still much work left to further reduce overdoses in Maryland.
“We are still losing far too many of our loved ones and neighbors to preventable overdoses, and we will not let up in our efforts to meet people where they are and make connections to care,” the governor said.
Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller chairs the Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council. Last year, the council created a workgroup to study racial disparities in overdoses.
Although the state has seen decreases in overdose deaths across race, gender and age groups, health department officials noted that disparities persist for minority groups in Maryland.
Non-Hispanic Black people accounted for 44% of all Maryland overdose deaths since 2022, despite that racial group comprising about 30% of the state’s population, officials said.
They added that Maryland’s Hispanic population under the age of 25 died from overdoses at higher rates than non-Hispanic white people and non-Hispanic Black people also under age 25.
“Substance use affects every community, and those struggling with addiction deserve quality care, no matter their background,” Miller said in a statement. “The progress we’ve made in reducing overdoses is encouraging, but the data is clear—our work must continue to ensure that all communities have equitable access to care and the resources that they need to stay safe.”
Overdose deaths were highest among people aged 55 or older, with that group accounting for 584 (about 38%) of last year’s fatal overdoses.
Of the total fatal overdoses recorded in 2024, 1,189 (about 77%) were due to fentanyl.
Organizations like the Maryland-based nonprofit Lost Voices of Fentanyl have worked to address fentanyl poisoning.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Maryland and the rest of the U.S. saw fatal overdoses reach historic highs. Maryland recorded 2,800 deaths from overdoses in 2021, the highest amount in the state’s history.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or are experiencing a behavioral health crisis, you can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. More information can also be found on the 988 webpage, including how to find nearby treatment providers.
Individuals can also visit StopOverdose.maryland.gov/naloxone for information about how to respond to an overdose and how to find and use naloxone.
