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Colorado's Middle-Aged Death Rates Surge Amid Substance Crisis

8/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In Colorado, older residents have largely bounced back from pandemic-related death spikes, yet middle-aged individuals are still grappling with a troubling rise in mortality, particularly from overdoses. Those aged 35-44 are experiencing a staggering 22% increase in death rates compared to 2019. Despite a decline in overdose deaths, the ongoing substance use crisis underscores an urgent need for enhanced mental health and addiction support.

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Story summary

In Colorado, older residents have largely bounced back from pandemic-related death spikes, yet middle-aged individuals are still grappling with a troubling rise in mortality, particularly from overdoses. Those aged 35-44 are experiencing a staggering 22% increase in death rates compared to 2019. Despite a decline in overdose deaths, the ongoing substance use crisis underscores an urgent need for enhanced mental health and addiction support.