According to official data from the Cyprus Drug Control Office (ααεκ), in the period from 2004 to 2023, 182 deaths associated with an overdose of drugs were registered on the island.
In 2023 alone, 17 such tragedies were recorded, most of which are not associated with traditional opioids, but with stimulants - primarily cocaine and methamphetamine.
Statistics were published on the eve of the International In memory of the victims of an overdose, which is celebrated annually on August 31 under the slogan “Unite in order to save life”.
If earlier opioid substances were considered the main cause of deaths, now stimulants come to the fore. This transformation reflects changes in the structure of drug consumption in Cyprus, and also coincides with pan -European and world trends.
According to the European drug agency (EUDA), in 2023 at least 6.500 deaths from an overdose occurred in the European Union. In most cases, it was a question of polynarcotic use, when opioids, stimulants, alcohol and benzodiazepines are simultaneously used. Such a combination significantly increases the risk of death and complicates the treatment of dependent.
Cyprus authorities declare the introduction of a comprehensive strategy to reduce mortality and prevention prevention. It includes several key directions:
The expansion of replacement therapy programs so that dependent on opioids can be treated even in places of imprisonment and after releasing freedom. Help the accessibility of Noxson - a drug that can save life during an overdose. In pharmacies and medical institutions, a form in the form of a nasal spray is common, and doctors teach the proper use of both patients and their loved ones. The programs for the reduction of harm: the Carezone mobile clinic and machine guns with free sterile syringes installed in all areas of Cyprus. This helps to reduce the risk of infections and related diseases. Antistigmatization campaigns aimed at combating public prejudices and the formation of support for dependence people.
On August 31, the Central Square of Elefteria in Nicosia will be highlighted by violet light in solidarity with the families of victims. Employees of the Carezone mobile clinic and representatives of AAIC will hold information promotions on the square, distribute materials and discuss with residents the methods of prevention of overdose.
Source: In-CyPrus.philenews.com
