Drug-induced deaths in Europe 2022, by age and gender

In 2022, the highest share of drug induced deaths in Europe occurred in the age group 25 to 44 years, with 50 percent of male drug deaths occurring in this age group and 39 percent among females. Almost one fifth of drug deaths among women were recorded in those aged over 64 years of age, but only five percent of drug deaths among men were in this age group.

Where the most drug deaths occur

Norway had the highest incidence of drug induced deaths in Europe in 2020. In Norway, there were 85 drug deaths per million population. Despite Czechia having the highest prevalence of problem drug use in Europe, the country has one of the lowest incidences of drug induced deaths in Europe.

Prevalence of drug use in Europe

In 2021, almost 30 percent of people in the EU reported trying cannabis at any point in their lifetime, while over eight percent of people had used it in the past year. This means cannabis is the most consumed drug across Europe. Around one percent of individuals in Europe have taken cocaine and MDMA in the past year.