ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - The nationwide heroin epidemic continues to affect families in Southwest Virginia. The region has seen a staggering number of overdoses and deaths related to the drug.
Emergency workers in Roanoke are among the people who see the impact of the increasing number of overdoses and deaths related to heroin.
"We are seeing that people are losing their lives" said Fire EMS Chief David Hoback.
Compared to this time last year, Hoback said, the number of suspected heroin cases has more than doubled from 40 in 2015 to 88 in 2016. He said the numbers are rough estimate based on the environment in which victims were found.
"Maybe the patient isn't telling us that they used heroin, but we see the drug paraphernalia around and they are exhibiting signs and symptoms of heroin overdoses and use," he said.
Hospitals reported an increase in heroin-related cases. Staff with the Virginia Health Department said emergency department visits in Southwest Virginia jumped from 29 in 2015 to 38 in 2016. Officials said it's a widespread problem affecting all parts of our community and emergency workers are only seeing the surface.
While Fire EMS crews are prepared for any situation, many said it will take a unified effort to tackle the heroin issue.
"We can try but it's really going to be up to the family members to get them the help and the counseling they need," said Hoback. "To turn their lives around, and stay turned around."
Hoback said he hopes to take part in the new HOPE initiative which provides resources to help substance abuse user overcome their addiction and raise awareness about the dangers of heroin.