Summary
A study by King's College London found that over 13,000 opioid-related deaths were not included in official statistics in England and Wales. This oversight, due to the lack of access to post-mortem reports by the government's statistics body, has implications for drug policy and funding for addiction services.
Key Facts
- Over 13,000 opioid deaths were missed in official statistics in England and Wales from 2011 to 2022.
- The research revealed a total of 39,232 opioid-related deaths during this period.
- The missing data resulted from the government's statistics body not accessing detailed post-mortem reports.
- Drug policies and funding decisions depend on accurate data.
- The Liberal Democrats are calling for an investigation into the error.
- Opioids include drugs like heroin and synthetic substances such as fentanyl.
- Researchers suggest better data could improve support and funding for addiction services.
- Additional research found that cocaine-related deaths were also undercounted.
