Newsworthy

The job of public health officials is to monitor the health and well-being of communities. Sometimes routine assessment of the data prompts a deeper dive into issues of potential concern to the community, and sometimes policymakers and public health partners ask for more information on a topic. Emerging trends or items of interest can be found here. Check back frequently to see what’s catching public attention.

Suicide

The average age for suicide death rate in Ferry County was 46 in 2021. Factors that increase the risk of suicide include a history of depression or mental illness, alcohol or drug abuse, a family history of suicide or violence, and feelings of being alone. Suicide affects the individual's family and friends, but also the community as a whole. Click "Read More" to learn more about suicide in Ferry County.

Leading Causes of Death 2021

There were 134 deaths in 2021 among Spokane County residents. The leading causes of death remain as cancer and heart disease. COVID-19 emerged as the third leading cause of death. Click "Read More" to learn more about the leading causes of death in Ferry County.

Opioid Overdoses

In Ferry County, the opioid overdose death rate (2012-2021) was 15.5 per 100,000 population. There were not sufficient data to statistically test the trend in opioid overdose rate. To learn more about opioid hospitalizations click "Read More."