Background
NRS publish annual statistics titled “drug-related deaths”. These statistics cover two definitions of drug-related death: drug misuse and drug poisoning. The headline measure reported in Scotland is drug misuse deaths. This refers to a definition defined by the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs cross UK working group in 2000. The broader term “drug poisoning” deaths is used specifically when making comparisons to the rest of the UK.
The term “drug misuse” was introduced to align with other UK statistics producers. It is used to differentiate from other definitions of drug death such as drug poisoning or drug induced deaths. It also clarifies that the death involves drugs defined under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
NRS previously used the term “drug-related” to refer to “drug misuse”. The wider measure of deaths related to drug poisoning are referred to as “drug-related” or “drug poisoning” deaths across the UK. NRS changed to using the term “drug misuse” as the headline measure in our 2021 report to align with the rest of the UK.
More information on comparability of drug-related deaths statistics across the UK is available from the Government Analysis Function website.
Reason for seeking feedback
NRS have received feedback on use of the term “drug misuse” including concerns that this is stigmatising language. Providing consistent terminology and clarity for users of our data to compare Scotland data with that of other UK nations is a high priority. However, we recognise the need to use appropriate and sensitively worded language in our statistics.
How to provide feedback
We welcome any feedback around the terminology used in drug-related death statistics in Scotland. Particularly any feedback around the language used, the importance of consistent terminology between UK producers in your use of the statistics and any suggested improvements to these terms.
Please send any feedback by 31 October to the following email address: vestatistics@nrscotland.gov.uk
