CHCC alerts community to rising methamphetamine-related health impacts and deaths in the CNMI

The Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation (CHCC) is alerting the community to a concerning rise in methamphetamine-related illnesses and deaths in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Enhanced public health surveillance shows a significant increase in individuals seeking care with methamphetamine-related health concerns. Cases rose from 71 in 2022 to 78 in 2023 and 122 in 2024, before more than doubling to 252 cases in 2025. Through August 31, 2026, CHCC has already identified 179 cases.

The increasing number of cases is also placing greater demands on the healthcare system. Between 2022 and 2026, CHCC documented 612 emergency department visits related to patients with identified methamphetamine use, 509 instances requiring urine drug screening, and 57 psychiatric interventions.

A Concerning Rise in Substance-Related Deaths

CHCC is particularly concerned about the significant upward trend in substance-related deaths in recent years.

Overall, the data demonstrates a sharp acceleration in substance-related mortality over the past years. Most deaths identified during the surveillance period involved adults between the ages of 30 and 59, highlighting the impact of substance use on individuals during some of the most active and productive years of their lives.

“This data reflects a growing public health concern that affects not only individuals, but also families and our entire community,” said Dr. Szefler, Public Health Medical Director. “Behind every statistic is a person whose life has been affected. We encourage anyone struggling with substance use, as well as their loved ones, to seek help as early as possible.”

CHCC is also monitoring an increase in polysubstance use, or the use of multiple substances. Cases increased from 16 in 2022 to 77 in 2025, with 65 cases already identified through August 31, 2026.

Combining methamphetamine with substances such as opioids or benzodiazepines can produce unpredictable and potentially life-threatening effects.

Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that can place significant stress on the heart, brain, and other major organ systems. Serious complications may include dangerously high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, stroke, and other life-threatening medical emergencies.

Prevention Is an Important Part of the Solution

Preventing substance use before it begins—and identifying concerns early—are critical to reducing the health and community impacts associated with methamphetamine and other drugs.

CHCC encourages families, schools, community organizations, healthcare providers, and other partners to work together to promote prevention, particularly among young adults. Prevention efforts can include providing accurate information about the risks of substance use, strengthening protective factors such as positive family and community connections, supporting healthy coping skills, and creating safe opportunities for young people to thrive.

Reducing stigma is also an important part of prevention and recovery. Community members who are struggling with substance use should feel safe seeking help without fear of shame or judgment. Early conversations, screening, intervention, and connection to appropriate services can help prevent substance use from progressing into a medical emergency or life-threatening condition.

Help Is Available

CHCC emphasizes that substance use disorder is a treatable health condition and that recovery is possible. Individuals and families may access support through CHCC outpatient clinical services, Community Guidance Center, and other available community support resources that include substance use screening, assessment, and treatment planning; individual, family, and group counseling services; case management and care coordination; peer support and recovery-oriented services; referral and linkages to other support services.

Community members are encouraged to seek help early and to support family members, friends, and loved ones who may be struggling. Help is available regardless of where a person is in their recovery journey.

For information or assistance: The CHCC: Community Guidance Center's Addiction Services Clinic is located at Gloria Drive, Lower Navy Hill

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X5mCZrLoTaCrE3HP6

Website: https://www.chcc.health/addictions-services.php

Clinic Phone Numbers: (670) 236-8291/92/93 and Hours: 7:30AM-4:30PM, Monday thru Friday

For mental health or suicide crisis support, please reach out to the 988 Lifeline.

Dial 9-8-8 anytime, 24/7.

In an emergency: Call 911 or proceed immediately to the CHCC Emergency Department.