A report from Harris County Public Health shows that substance-related deaths and healthcare visits have increased over the past four years. Substance-related deaths increased by 74.9%, from 673 in 2018 to 1,177 in 2022, with Harris County's numbers higher than the Texas average. Fentanyl is the most common drug involved in these deaths, followed by cocaine and methamphetamine, according to the Harris County Public Health.
Recent data shows a significant rise in substance use, especially among youth and adults. White, non-Hispanic youth have the highest number of substance-related healthcare visits, but visits among Black, non-Hispanic youth increased by 217.9%. For adults, Black, non-Hispanic individuals saw a 375% increase, and White, non-Hispanic adults had a 342.7% rise. In response, Harris County Public Health is expanding access to naloxone for opioid overdoses, launching education campaigns, and offering peer recovery support in the community.
The Harris County Public Health report shows that substance use affects certain groups more, including Black, non-Hispanic people, those who are homeless, and those involved with the justice system. Harris County Public Health will continue its Substance Use Prevention Program, started in 2020, with support from the CDC’s Overdose Data to Action grant. A free public webinar will be held in March 2025.
