The Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation is alerting the community to a rapid rise in methamphetamine‑related illnesses and deaths, with new surveillance data showing cases have more than tripled in four years.
CHCC reported Thursday that meth‑related cases increased from 71 in 2022 to 252 in 2025. Through Aug. 31, the agency has already identified 179 cases. The surge has led to 612 emergency department visits, 509 urine drug screenings, and 57 psychiatric interventions since 2022.
CHCC officials said they are particularly concerned about the upward trend in substance‑related deaths. Most deaths identified during the surveillance period involved adults between the ages of 30 and 59 — a demographic CHCC described as being in “the most active and productive years of their lives.”
“This data reflects a growing public health concern that affects not only individuals, but also families and our entire community,” said Dr. Szefler, CHCC public health medical director. “Behind every statistic is a person whose life has been affected.”
CHCC is monitoring rising polysubstance use, which jumped from 16 cases in 2022 to 77 in 2025, with 65 cases already recorded this year. Mixing methamphetamine with opioids or benzodiazepines can trigger unpredictable and life‑threatening medical emergencies.
The agency emphasized prevention, early intervention, and reducing stigma as key strategies. CHCC encourages families, schools, and community groups to strengthen protective factors, support healthy coping skills, and ensure people feel safe seeking help.
Substance use disorder is treatable, CHCC said, and recovery resources are available through the Community Guidance Center’s Addiction Services Clinic on Gloria Drive, Lower Navy Hill. Phone: (670) 236‑8291/92/93 Hours: 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday
Website: chcc.health/addictions-services.php
For crisis support, call the 988 Lifeline. In emergencies, call 911 or go to the CHCC Emergency Department.
