This year continues to be incredibly sad as the number of people dying by toxic drugs persists at a tragic rate: Sheila Malcolmson

Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, has released a statement regarding the BC Coroners Service’s report on illicit drug toxicity deaths for July 2021.

"This year continues to be incredibly sad as the number of people dying by toxic drugs persists at a tragic rate. My thoughts are with everyone who is mourning the loss of someone they love.

"While we have been adding services and supports in an unprecedented way, B.C. is facing a rising tide of need.

"A lot of work is happening on the ground to make the large, systemic changes necessary to truly turn the tide on this crisis. We must confront this emergency from every angle to address both immediate and longer-term needs.

"So, while toxic drugs are circulating, we are asking people to look out for one another and help keep our friends and family members who use drugs alive. Knowing how to access an overdose prevention or safe consumption site and carrying naloxone can save someone’s life today, and we are continuing to add more overdose prevention services.

Toxic illicit drug supply claims lives of 184 British Columbians in July

More than 1,200 people have died as a result of toxic drugs in the first seven months of 2021, according to the latest preliminary reporting from the BC Coroners Service.

"The deaths of another 184 of our community members in July is a stark reminder of the tragic and unrelenting trajectory of this public health emergency," said Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner. "We know that the loss of each of these individuals leaves a devastated circle of family and friends who are grieving the preventable death of a cherished loved one."

The 184 reported deaths represent the second-deadliest month on record in B.C. for drug toxicity, only two fewer than the 186 deaths recorded in June 2020. In the first seven months of 2021, 1,204 suspected drug toxicity deaths have been recorded, the highest number experienced in B.C. from January through July in any calendar year, and 26% more than the previous high of 954 deaths recorded between January and July 2017.

July 2021 is the 17th consecutive month in which more than 100 British Columbians have died as a result of the toxic drug supply.

Additional key preliminary findings are below. Data is subject to change as additional toxicology results are received:

72% of those who have died as a result of suspected drug toxicity in 2021 were between 30 and 59, and 79% were male.

So far this year, 84% of illicit drug toxicity deaths have occurred inside (55% in private residences and 29% in other residences including social and supportive housing, SROs, shelters, hotels and other indoor locations) while 15% occurred outside in vehicles, sidewalks, streets, parks, etc.

The health authorities with the highest rates of death per 100,000 population are Vancouver Coastal (47.2) and Northern (45.6).

Deaths due to drug toxicity remain the leading cause of unnatural death in B.C.