To shed more light on the expanding drug epidemic both in the United States and in the world at large, Cigna scoured the web for some of the most surprising statistics related to overdoses. Among the many areas highlighted: In the U.S., drug overdose deaths hit a record 93,000 in 2020, a 29% increase from the previous high of 72,000 in 2019.
Cigna overdose reduction strategy lead Terri Cox Glassen said, “Because of the impact of COVID-19, it’s incumbent upon us to talk about this topic now more than ever.” In a video, Cigna Medical Director of Behavioral Health Dr. Karl Sieg shares questions you may ask friends or loved ones to help identify if substance use may be an issue to be concerned about.