Abstract
BackgroundThe general increase in opioid-related deaths is well documented, and disparities by geographic regions and demographic characteristics have been observed as well. However, the distribution of opioid-related deaths among U.S. counties and the trends in that distribution have not been fully explored. This study examines the inequality in opioid death rates to assess convergence or divergence in opioid-related mortality between counties. MethodsUsing mortality data from the NVSS for 2000–2014, this study examines the Gini coefficient of the county opioid mortality distribution. ResultsThe distribution of opioid mortality became more equal, with the Gini coefficient falling from 0.81 in 2000 to 0.61 in 2014. Counties with lower initial opioid mortality rates experienced faster growth in mortality than counties with high initial mortality. ConclusionsCounties have experienced a convergence in opioid mortality rates. This poses potential challenges for addressing the crisis, as measures must become much broader in scope and be implemented in areas in which the dangers of the opioid crisis are not as apparent.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
