First Nations Health Authority backs harm reduction on B.C. overdose anniversary

The First Nations Health Authority's Dr. Nel Wieman has called for an unwavering commitment to harm reduction measures as British Columbia marks the ninth anniversary of its toxic drug crisis. Despite a reported 6. 8% decrease in deaths among Indigenous Peoples last year, their death rate remains 6. 7 times higher than that of non-Indigenous residents.

Dr. Wieman warns against the dangers of misinformation that can undermine public support for life-saving interventions. B. C. 's provincial health officer, Dr.

Bonnie Henry, acknowledges some positive trends but emphasizes the urgent need for continued support and innovation in harm reduction. Health Minister Josie Osborne notes the profound grief left in the wake of each overdose death, highlighting the necessity of reducing stigma and improving access to care. Both Wieman and Osborne stress that addressing the complex factors driving substance use requires a compassionate and multifaceted response. The toxic drug crisis has claimed over 16,000 lives in B. C.

since its declaration as a public health emergency in 2016. The officials' unified message underscores the critical need for tailored solutions to protect vulnerable populations and save lives.