According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), more than 61 million Americans reported use of illicit drugs in the past year and 24 million fit the criteria for a drug-related substance use disorder (SUD). People with SUDs face a wide range of negative consequences tied to their drug use, including health issues, disability, social isolation, problems at school or work, and financial strain. However, the implementation of evidence-based harm reduction strategies is proven to minimize these negative outcomes.
Harm reduction is centered on improving the quality of life and wellbeing of the individual and is essential for reducing stigma, limiting fatal overdoses, and keeping drug users as healthy as possible. RTI International understands that trauma-informed, evidence-based harm reduction interventions are critical for addressing the overdose epidemic. Our experts are on the forefront of research on various strategies—including naloxone distribution, syringe service programs (SSPs), safe consumption sites (SCS), and prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs).