182 overdose deaths in Nicosia: CAAR report for 2004–2023

The National Documentation and Information Centre on Drugs of the Cyprus Addiction Authority (CAAR) has published alarming statistics: from 2004 to 2023, the country recorded 182 cases of drug overdose deaths.

The situation looks particularly severe in 2023 — during this period, 17 fatal cases were registered, the overwhelming majority linked to the use of stimulant drugs, in particular cocaine and methamphetamine. These figures were presented in CAAR’s publication dedicated to International Overdose Awareness Day, marked on August 31. In its statement, the authority emphasized the importance of this year’s slogan — “Together for Life” — and called for collective action and solidarity in preventing such tragedies.

In addition to local statistics, CAAR also presented data for the European Union. According to the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), in 2023 at least 6,500 overdose deaths were registered in the EU. Most cases were linked to polydrug use — a combination of opioids, stimulants, alcohol, and benzodiazepines.

In response to this situation, CAAR continues to implement comprehensive strategies to reduce the number of fatal outcomes. The main directions include:

Substitution therapy — expanding access to and retention of opioid-dependent patients in opioid agonist treatment programs.

Ensuring continuity of treatment, including during periods of imprisonment and reintegration into society.

The organization notes that these measures are designed to reduce the risk of overdoses and improve the overall effectiveness of the support system for people with addictions.