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

Suicide rates remained the same over the last 5 years in Stevens County. 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 Stevens County.

Leading Causes of Death 2021

There were 633 deaths in 2021 among Stevens 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 Stevens County.

Opioid Overdoses and Use

The opioid overdose death rate in the past five years (2017-2021) in Stevens County was lower than that of Washington State. To learn more about trends in opioid hospitalizations and youth opioid use, click "Read More."