Unregulated Drug Supply Claims 184 British Columbians In June 2023

The BC Coroner’s Service says more than 1,200 deaths have been attributed to toxic drugs in the first six months of this year.

“British Columbia is continuing to lose community members at record rates as a result of the toxicity of the unregulated drug market ,” said Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner.

“Illicit fentanyl continues to drive the crisis, which is causing deaths in large and small municipalities, towns, and cities across the province. This health emergency is not confined to one neighbourhood or one demographic. Anyone accessing an illicit substance is at risk of serious harm or death.”

Fentanyl was present in more than 90% of toxicological testing in June, while nearly three-quarters of tests indicated the presence of a stimulant.

Almost all unregulated drug deaths are the result of mixed drug toxicity.

Consistent with historical trends, more than 80% of reported deaths in 2023 have occurred indoors, with nearly half taking place in a private residence.

Smoking continues to be the predominant mode of consumption in suspected drug deaths, in nearly seven out of every 10 cases.

Unregulated drug toxicity is the leading cause of death in British Columbia for persons aged 10 to 59, accounting for more deaths than homicides, suicides, accidents, and natural disease combined.

The lives of at least 12,509 British Columbians have been lost to unregulated drugs since the public health emergency was first declared in April 2016.

By local health area, the highest rates in 2023 are in Vancouver - Centre North, Terrace, Greater Campbell River, Princeton, and Greater Nanaimo.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.