New research highlights BMI as risk factor in drug-related deaths

The NHS Addictions Provider Alliance spoke with Martin Smith, Recovery Lead at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, about a study exploring the link between body mass index (BMI) and mortality among people using drugs. Contrary to common assumptions, the research found that the majority of overdose deaths occurred in people with a high BMI, often alongside co-morbidities such as COPD, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and sleep apnoea. Low BMI was more commonly associated with deaths from infections or chronic conditions.

The study, High BMI is a specific risk factor for drug-related mortality in patients receiving methadone: A case control study, highlights the importance of regularly recording BMI in drug and alcohol services and considering multiple health factors when assessing risk. Martin emphasises that these findings support the need for personalised care, informed prescribing practices, and strengthened partnerships with primary care to better support individuals with high or low BMI.

Services and professionals can read the full study to explore the findings in detail. The research provides actionable insights for community drug and alcohol services, supporting clinicians to have informed conversations about health risks, treatment options, and preventative measures to reduce drug-related deaths.

Download the full case study here:

BMI Case Study v2.pdf

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