Occupational Patterns in Unintentional and Undetermined Drug-Involved and Opioid-Involved Overdose Deaths

Summary

What is already known about this topic?

A majority of the U.S. population participates in the workforce. A person’s job affects both physical and psychological well- being. The opioid epidemic negatively affects workers, work- places, and employers.

What is added by this report?

During 2007–2012 proportional mortality ratios (PMR) for heroin-related overdose deaths (1.46) and methadone-related overdose deaths (1.34) were highest for the construction occupation group. PMRs for natural and semisynthetic opioids were highest for the extraction (1.39) and health care practitio- ner (1.81) occupation groups.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Identification of occupations associated with drug overdose deaths further characterizes the opioid epidemic. Incorporating workplace research and targeted interventions might benefit the opioid epidemic response.