From the Research
People with substance use disorders (SUD) die at higher rates than the general public from several non-overdose illnesses, including infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, liver diseases, respiratory illnesses, mental health conditions, and certain cancers. These illnesses are often linked to the direct physiological effects of substances, risky behaviors associated with substance use, reduced healthcare access, poor self-care, social determinants of health, and the compounding effects of multiple substance use and comorbidities. Some of the key non-overdose illnesses that individuals with SUD are at higher risk of dying from include:
- Infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, endocarditis, cellulitis, and tuberculosis, which are often linked to injection drug use and compromised immune systems 1, 2
- Cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, cardiomyopathy, and bacterial endocarditis, which are more prevalent in individuals with SUD, particularly those with co-occurring mental health conditions 3
- Liver diseases like cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis, which are common among those with alcohol use disorder 1
- Respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer, which occur at higher rates in individuals who smoke substances 1, 4
- Mental health conditions, including depression and suicide, which are significantly elevated in this population, with opioid use disorder being a strong risk factor for suicide death 1, 5
- Certain cancers, nutritional deficiencies, traumatic injuries, and premature aging-related conditions, which are also more common in individuals with SUD 1, 2 It is essential to prioritize the identification and management of these non-overdose illnesses in individuals with SUD to reduce morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life. This can be achieved through comprehensive healthcare services, including regular health screenings, substance use disorder treatment, and mental health support 1, 5, 2.