Most drug victims come from Trainspotting era

The “Trainspotting generation” in their 40s are now most at risk of death from drugs, according to data just published. Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that for the first time those aged 40-49 have the highest incidence of drug-related deaths, overtaking those in their 30s.

Deaths reached an all-time high of 3,744 in 2016, an increase of 70 from the previous year. Rosanna O’connor, director of drugs, alcohol and tobacco at Public Health England, said: “Many of these deaths can be explained as the Trainspotting generation, often in poor physical and mental health, losing battles with addiction to drugs.”