Statistics are based on data from the Maine Attorney General’s Office.
Here are three things to know.
- Maine reported 189 drug overdose deaths through June 30, marking a 50 percent increase from the same period last year, when 126 deaths occurred.
- If this pace continues, the state will reach 378 overdose deaths this year. Last year, 272 people died from drug overdoses in Maine.
- Heroin and illicit opioids — like fentanyl — were contributing factors in 60 percent of the overdose deaths in 2016 and prescription opioids were found in 64 percent of overdose victims. Fentanyl alone was a factor in 44 percent of deaths.
More articles on clinical quality:
Howard County General Hospital receives Quality Innovation Award
Boston Children’s study says acetaminophen is safe for kids with asthma
Scientists develop opioid to reduce pain with less risk of addiction
