Over the last two decades, drug overdose deaths, whether accidental or self-imposed, have increased significantly throughout the world, with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimating that more than 100,000 Americans die from drug-related overdoses each year.
IOAD, which was first held in Melbourne, Australia in 2001 and has been convened globally by Penington Institute since 2012, aims to address the need for urgent evidence-based action on overdose prevention and drug policy; remember without stigma those who have died; acknowledge the profound grief felt by family and friends whose loved ones have died or suffered permanent injury from a drug overdose; and break down the stigma surrounding drug use and overdose.
The theme for 2024 is ‘Together We Can,’ highlighting the power of community when everyone stands together to help combat one of the world’s worst public health crises. To learn more about this growing epidemic or to find out how you can help someone, check out some of the resources available through the Edison Public Library: |
