In Ontario, comprehensive information on fatal substance-related toxicities have primarily focused on deaths caused by opioid toxicity. Limited data exists concerning the occurrence of toxicity-induced deaths linked to alcohol, benzodiazepines, and stimulants, as well as the prevalence of deaths resulting from the combined use of these substances. As indicators suggest a rise in mortality rates due to alcohol and other drugs across Canada, the Ontario Drug Policy Research Network (ODPRN), along with people with lived/living experience (PWLLE) and Public Health Ontario (PHO) have partnered to produce a new report. Speakers will present the findings of the report outlining the evolving trends and contextual factors surrounding fatal instances of substance-related toxicities across Ontario, combining data related to fatalities stemming from alcohol, stimulants, benzodiazepines and opioids.
Intended audience: Public health leaders and staff who specialize in or offer services related to harm reduction, substance use and mental health. Policy makers, academic and research audiences interested in this topic area, public health physicians, public health unit (PHU) staff.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Compare the relative contributions of different substances to substance-toxicity deaths in Ontario and how this has changed over time.
- Describe populations where most substance-toxicity deaths are concentrated.
- Summarize insights into circumstances and contributing factors to substance toxicity deaths.
- Identify opportunities to improve and tailor responses to toxicity events that incorporate data and the perspectives of people with lived and living experience.
Presenter(s): Dr. Tara Gomes, Tasha-Dawn Doucette, Ashley Smoke
Dr. Tara Gomes, PhD, is the Scientific Director of Urban and Community Health at Unity Health Toronto and Principal Investigator of the Ontario Drug Policy Research Network.
Tasha-Dawn Doucette holds a BA in Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Law and is in her 4th year towards a BA Honours in Law with her eyes on a Masters. Sadly, her family and loved ones are dying from drugs regularly.
Ashley Smoke has over 7 years of experience in Harm Reduction and Aids Service Organizations, is the founder of Northumberland Drug User, Co-Founder and VP of The Ontario Network of People Who Use Drugs, Board Member for The Canadian Association of People Who Use Drugs, and has participated on many research projects with the ODPRN and other organizations. She also sits on the ODPRN Lived Experience Advisory Group and the PWLLE Council for the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies or views of Public Health Ontario, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by Public Health Ontario.
Accreditation
Public Health Ontario Rounds are a self-approved group learning activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). In order to receive written documentation for Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, please check “Yes” beside the question “Do you require CME credits?” on the registration form.
College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) Affiliate Members may count RCPSC credits toward their Mainpro+ credit requirements. All other CFPC members may claim up to 50 Certified credits per cycle for participation in RCPSC MOC Section 1 accredited activities.
PHO Rounds are also approved by the Council of Professional Experience for professional development hours (PDHs) for members of the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI).
For more information or for a record of registration for other Continuing Education purposes, please contact capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
Accessibility
Public Health Ontario is committed to complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodations to participate in this event, please contact 647-260-7100 or capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
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