For the analysis, WalletHub assessed each state and Washington, D.C., on 22 metrics across three categories: drug use and addiction, law enforcement, and drug-related health issues and rehabilitation. Metrics included overdose rates, drug-related arrests and opioid prescription volumes, among others. More information about the methodology is available here.
Overall, WalletHub found that issues with drug use were most pronounced in Missouri and least prominent in Minnesota. The company also compared the best and worst states in ratings on more specific drug-related topics.
Here are five states with the most overdose deaths per capita:
- West Virginia
Delaware (tie) - Maryland
- Pennsylvania
- Ohio
Five states with the fewest overdose deaths per capita:
- South Dakota
- Nebraska
- Iowa
- North Dakota
- Texas
To view the full ranking, click here.
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