Opioid OD mortality could reach 250 a day if trends continue, analysis finds

Close to 100 Americans are killed by opioids each day, a figure that could rise to 250 - or more than 650,000 over the next decade - if potent synthetic compounds such as fentanyl and carfentanil continue to proliferate while waiting time for treatment lengthens in the hardest-hit areas. Experts predict mortality will not stabilize until after 2020, because it will take several years to see if government interventions are effective.
less than 1 minute to read

Close to 100 Americans are killed by opioids each day, a figure that could rise to 250 -- or more than 650,000 over the next decade -- if potent synthetic compounds such as fentanyl and carfentanil continue to proliferate while waiting time for treatment lengthens in the hardest-hit areas, according to this analysis. Experts predict that mortality will not stabilize until after 2020, because it will take several years to see if government interventions are effective.

From "STAT forecast: Opioids could kill nearly 500,000 Americans in the next decade" published by STAT.


The leading voice and advocate for nurses in Washington

WSNA provides representation, education and resources that allow nurses to reach their full professional potential and focus on caring for patients. WSNA has represented nurses in our state since 1908, leveraging our collective voice to successfully advocate with employers, state agencies and the state Legislature for better working conditions, safe staffing, fair compensation and patient safety. For more than 110 years, WSNA has championed issues that support nurses, advance professional standards and improve the health of individuals and families in Washington.


The Washington State Nurses Association is affiliated with

Washington State Nurses Association
575 Andover Park West, Suite 101
Seattle, WA 98188

Contact us


Washington State Nurses Association is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.

Washington State Nurses Association, WSNA, and related logos are registered trademarks of the Washington State Nurses Association and may not be used without prior written permission.
© 2005-2026. All rights reserved. Privacy policy