Probability of Dying from Accidental Poisoning

Accidental poisoning, which includes drug overdoses, is the leading cause of unintentional injury death in the United States. The National Safety Council estimates lifetime odds of dying from accidental poisoning at approximately 1 in 140. This category saw a dramatic increase due to the opioid epidemic.

Drug overdoses account for the vast majority of poisoning deaths. In 2022, over 107,000 Americans died from drug overdoses, with synthetic opioids (primarily fentanyl) driving the crisis. Other poisoning causes include carbon monoxide, household chemicals, and alcohol poisoning. The highest overdose death rates are among adults aged 35-44.

Harm reduction strategies include carrying naloxone (Narcan) if you or someone you know uses opioids, never using drugs alone, avoiding mixing substances, using fentanyl test strips, seeking evidence-based addiction treatment (medication-assisted treatment), and properly storing and disposing of prescription medications. Installing CO detectors and safely storing household chemicals also prevents non-drug poisoning deaths.