Unintentional Poisoning and Death
According to the CDC West Virginia has the highest rate of unintentional poisoning and death from prescription medication, with a 550% increase in overdose since 1999. This statistic far surpasses the national average of a 62.5% increase in unintentional poisoning. The increase coincides with the availability of prescription drugs to non-prescribed consumers. Popularity of prescription abuse now surpasses all illegal drugs combined, excluding marijuana. Accidental death from confusing or overdosing on prescription medicines is second to only auto accidents. Based on these statistics it is paramount that medicine cabinets are routinely cleaned out to prevent poisoning accidents.
US Department of Health and Human Services - Drug Usage - 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
CDC-Unintentional Death and Poisoning - Unintentional deaths and poisonings in the U.S. from 1999-2004
National Center on Adiction and Substance Abuse - Controlled Substance Abuse - The Diversion and Abuse of Controlled Substances in the U.S.
West Virginia Drug (RX) Abuse Quitline - Prescription Drug (Rx) Abuse Quiteline, information on prescription drug abuse and how to get help
