Prevalence and high-risk behaviors associated with non-fatal overdose among people who use illicit opioids: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background The aim of the present study was to determine prevalence non-fatal overdose among people who use illicit opioids (PWUIOs) and demographic behavioral characteristics associated with this population.Methods Studies in English published before February 1, 2021, were searched for on PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, Web Science identify primary studies factors PWUIOs. After reviewing duplicates, full-texts selected papers assessed eligibility using PICOs criteria.Results a detailed assessment over 13,845 papers, total 67 met criteria. findings showed past-year pooled rate PWUIOs 26% (95% CI, 23% −29%). Greater odds (i) being younger, (ii) female, (iii) homeless, (iv) individuals received money, goods, or drugs exchange sex, (v) had witnessed somebody else have an overdose, (vi) used public spaces as injection locations, (vii) reported polydrug use, non-injection methamphetamine, (viii) high injecting frequency (more than two daily drug injections).Conclusion Harm-reduction programs should consider provision education concerning overdose-related risk vulnerable hard-to-reach