The Drug Abuse Warning Network’s (DAWN) National Estimates from Drug-Related Emergency Department Visits, 2023, provides insights into the landscape of substance use and its impact on healthcare systems. This report sheds light on patterns, trends, and demographics of drug-related emergency department (ED) visits, offering a foundation for meaningful action.

In 2023, the United States faced a sobering reality with an estimated 7.59 million drug-related ED visits, reflecting a rate of 2,266 visits per 100,000 individuals. This represents a 5.8% increase compared to 2022, underscoring the growing burden of substance use on public health systems.

The data reveals distinct patterns across demographic groups. Adults aged 26 to 44 had the highest rate of drug-related ED visits at 3,245 per 100,000 individuals, followed closely by those aged 45 to 64 at 2,778 per 100,000 individuals. Furthermore, males exhibited higher rates of drug -related ED visits compared to females, though certain substances such as cannabis and benzodiazepines, showed similar rates across genders.

Cannabis: a growing concern

Cannabis remains one of the most frequently cited substances in drug-related ED visits. In 2023, cannabis-related ED visits reached 896,418, marking a 4.6% increase from 2022 (857,289). Cannabis was implicated in 11.8% of all drug-related ED visits with a national rate of 268 per 100,000. However, certain demographic groups faced disproportionate risks: individuals aged 18 to 25 had a staggering rate of 676 cannabis-related ED visits per 100,000 followed by those aged 26 to 44 with 436 per 100,000.

This upward trend highlights the importance of addressing cannabis use and inform the public of its harm and increasing potency, particularly to young adults. This becomes of greater emphasis as legalization continues to expand and access becomes more prevalent.

Beyond cannabis, other substances commonly linked to ED visit includes alcohol, opioids, methamphetamines, cocaine, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants. This list remained consistent from 2022 to 2023 with slight variations in order. Each of these substances carries unique risks, but their collective impact paints a troubling picture of substance use in the U.S.

While these statistics are alarming, they also present an opportunity to reflect, understand, and take action to mitigate the risks associated with drug use and its consequences. We must remember that these statistics represent individuals, along with countless loved ones who are also impacted, underscoring the importance of prevention.

Reference:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024). Drug Abuse Warning Network: National Estimates from Drug-Related Emergency Department Visits, 2023. Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data