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Nitrous Oxide Deaths in the U.S. Surge

A new study finds nitrous oxide-related deaths increased 500% from 2010 to 2023.

July 31, 2025 at 07:20 PM

Nitrous Oxide Deaths in America Are Surging

The alarming rise in nitrous oxide-related deaths warrants urgent public awareness and action.

Surge in Nitrous Oxide Deaths Raises Public Health Concerns

Recent research reveals that deaths linked to nitrous oxide, widely known as laughing gas, have surged significantly in the United States. A study by the University of Mississippi and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign indicates a 500% increase in annual deaths from nitrous oxide between 2010 and 2023. In 2010, there were 23 reported deaths, but by 2023, that number had climbed to 156. This trend, while starting from a relatively low base, highlights a growing public health issue. Medical professionals often use nitrous oxide in controlled environments, but its rising recreational usage is leading to more fatalities due to misuse, which can cause serious health risks including oxygen deprivation and neurological damage. There is a pressing need for better education and preventive measures to address this escalating danger as more young people experiment with nitrous oxide, often influenced by social media trends.

Key Takeaways

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Nitrous oxide deaths increased by 500% from 2010 to 2023.

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Annual deaths from nitrous oxide are still relatively low but rising.

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Recreational use of nitrous oxide is driven by product availability.

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Short-term effects of nitrous oxide misuse can be severe.

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Chronic use can lead to significant health issues including neurological damage.

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Public education on the risks is urgently needed.

"This is not local to one area; it’s everywhere."

Andrew Yockey emphasizes the widespread nature of the nitrous oxide issue.

"The numbers are still small right now, but they’re growing, and they’re growing fast."

Yockey's statement stresses the urgency of the situation.

The surge in nitrous oxide-related deaths signals a broader trend of increasing substance misuse in society. As the availability of nitrous oxide grows—through whipped cream chargers and other consumer products—so does the potential for misuse. Public health experts emphasize that appropriate educational campaigns are vital to raise awareness about the dangers associated with nitrous oxide, particularly for minors who may be exposed to harmful trends through viral challenges online. The report also underscores the necessity for national surveillance of this substance, as the statistics, though still small, reflect a worrying trajectory that could lead to more casualties if left unchecked. Addressing this issue effectively may require cooperation between health agencies, educational institutions, and social media platforms to prevent potential misuse and associated health risks.