Staggering Numbers as State Releases Opioid Deaths by Town

There have been 2,668 unintentional opioid overdose deaths in the Bay State between 2012-2014, according to new statistics released by the Massachusetts Department of Health. The information comes as part of the state’s ongoing commitment for greater transparency and data information around the opioid epidemic.

The number of confirmed cases of unintentional opioid overdose deaths for 2014 (1,089) represents a 63% increase over 2012 (668) and a 20% increase over cases for 2013 (911).

There were eight opioid overdose deaths confirmed in Tewksbury during that time period.

However, opioid overdoses and deaths are on the increase this year as Tewksbury has seen 56 overdoses and seven related deaths just since Jan. 1, 2015, according to Tewksbury Police Chief Timothy Sheehan.

This week is Tewksbury’s Substance Use Prevention and Education Week as officials work to increase public awareness as a crucial weapon in this battle by educating students, parents, guardians and community members.

Read more about Tewksbury’s Substance Use Prevention and Education Week >>>

“This data reminds us that we need to use every tool at our disposal to fight back against this public health crisis, which continues to have a drastic impact in all corners of the Commonwealth,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our proposed legislation introduces much-needed reforms to create new pathways to treatment and help us fight the deadly opioid epidemic.”

More than 680 people died of overdoses during the first six months of this year, statistics indicate.

Updated data on all cities and towns for 2012 through 2014 is available for viewing at mass.gov/stopaddiction.