STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Staten Island had the second highest rate of overdose deaths in the five boroughs in 2022, behind only the Bronx, according to newly-released New York City Health Department data.
Citywide in 2022, there were 3,026 overdose deaths compared with 2,696 in 2021 — an increase of 12% (330 deaths). This is at least the fourth year in a row that these numbers have risen.
The Health commissioner issued an advisory as “the overdose crisis reaches historic levels.”
The Bronx rate of overdose deaths in 2022 was 73.6 per 100,000 residents; Staten Island had the second highest rate at 38.0 per 100,000.
The Island figure was up slightly from 37.9 per 100,000 in 2021. There were 152 fatal overdoses in 2022 and 146 the year prior.
“This crisis is killing a New Yorker every three hours and is impacting every individual and family in our city and in our nation,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “No one is spared, even if you think otherwise.”
Out of the neighborhoods presented by the city Health Department, Staten Island’s Stapleton-St. George area had an overdose rate higher than the city average, with 46.8 overdoses per 100,000 residents.
As in prior years, adults ages 55 to 64 had the highest rate of overdose in 2022, followed by adults ages 45 to 54 (78.7 and 65.0 per 100,000 residents, respectively).
“If you use drugs, know someone who is using drugs, or might be around drug use, there are simple steps we can take,” Vasan added.
“First, everyone should carry naloxone, get trained to use it and to recognize the signs of overdose. Second, no one should use or allow anyone else to use drugs alone. Third, if you use drugs, seek care, support and treatment; we have a range of options and harm reduction is the foundation.
“Lastly, everyone should have a candid, judgement-free conversation at your kitchen table about drugs and their danger. We’re all in this together.”
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