Western Cape appeals to the public to use alcohol responsibly over festive season! As the festive season draws near, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has issued an urgent appeal to the public to use alcohol responsibly.
The department launched its festive readiness plan on Thursday at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town, with a focus on mitigating the health and social challenges that arise during this time of year.
Dr. Saadiq Kariem, Chief Operating Officer for the Department, highlighted the significant role that alcohol plays in contributing to trauma-related injuries, particularly during the festive season.
“We know that alcohol is the third-largest contributor to mortality and disability, after STIs and interpersonal violence,” Dr. Kariem stated.
Western Cape appeals to the public
Alcohol’s Role in Trauma-Related Injuries
The festive season is often associated with celebrations, gatherings, and increased alcohol consumption. Unfortunately, this period also brings with it a surge in trauma-related injuries, many of which are linked to excessive drinking.
Dr. Kariem emphasized the broader public health impact, noting that alcohol is a leading factor behind a wide range of injuries, from car accidents to physical altercations. These incidents typically put enormous pressure on emergency medical services and hospitals.
“Alcohol-related trauma also costs the healthcare sector billions every year,” Dr. Kariem explained. According to studies, alcohol-related injuries and incidents result in significant financial strain on the healthcare system.
In 2009, the estimated cost of alcohol-related health issues was around R12 billion. Adjusted for inflation, Dr. Kariem estimated that the cost today would be closer to R37 to R40 billion.
This financial burden is not only felt by the healthcare sector but by society at large. The diversion of resources to treat alcohol-related injuries often means that funds are stretched thin, impacting the overall quality of healthcare available to the general population.
Alcohol and Homicide Rates Over the Festive Period
One of the most troubling statistics linked to alcohol consumption during the festive season is its relationship with violent crime, particularly homicides.
Dr. Kariem explained that there is a marked increase in alcohol-related violence during the holidays, with many violent crimes being directly fueled by excessive drinking.
“Alcohol is often related to an increase in homicides over the festive season,” Dr. Kariem stated. This includes not only individual acts of violence but also domestic abuse and altercations in public spaces. The combination of festive celebrations, heightened emotions, and excessive drinking can lead to tragic consequences, particularly in households or communities already struggling with social and economic challenges.
The department’s festive readiness plan includes a comprehensive approach to reducing alcohol-related harm, focusing on public awareness campaigns, community support programs, and bolstering emergency services during the busiest months of the year.
Public Health Campaigns and Awareness
To address the rising concerns around alcohol misuse, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has rolled out various awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public on the risks of excessive drinking. These campaigns will focus on promoting responsible drinking and encouraging individuals to be mindful of the negative consequences of alcohol consumption.
Dr. Kariem also called for a collective effort from the community, healthcare providers, and law enforcement agencies to reduce alcohol-related harm. “This is a shared responsibility,” he said, adding that healthcare providers, local authorities, and community leaders all play a vital role in helping to reduce the impact of alcohol-related trauma.
Supporting Families and Communities
One of the key components of the department’s festive readiness plan is a focus on mental health and community support. Dr. Kariem acknowledged that the holidays can be a particularly stressful time for many people, and the combination of financial pressures, social expectations, and family dynamics can lead to increased alcohol consumption.
“We want to ensure that families and communities are supported, especially in areas where alcohol-related trauma is more prevalent,” he said. “By providing resources for mental health support and building stronger community networks, we hope to reduce the factors that contribute to alcohol misuse during the holiday season.”
A Call for Personal Responsibility
As the festive season approaches, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is calling on individuals to take personal responsibility for their alcohol consumption. Dr. Kariem urged people to be mindful of their drinking habits, avoid excessive alcohol use, and make safer decisions when it comes to partying and socializing.
“Alcohol can be enjoyed in moderation, but it’s important that we don’t let it negatively impact our health, our families, and our communities,” he said. The department is hopeful that through public education and collective action, it can help reduce alcohol-related trauma and the strain it places on the healthcare system during the busy festive season.
With these measures in place, the Western Cape hopes to ensure a safer, healthier holiday season for all its residents, one that is free from the devastating consequences of alcohol misuse.
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