The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has warned that increased alcohol consumption during the festive season is placing severe pressure on the country’s public healthcare system.
WATCH | The South African Medical Association says it is concerned by the high number of alcohol-related admissions at hospitals during the festive season, which they say overburdens healthcare workers and resources, among others. pic.twitter.com/cx1IjOx7d7
— SABC News (@SABCNews) January 3, 2026
[ON AIR] Alcohol abuse continues to place severe pressure on South Africa’s emergency services, with hospitals, ambulance services and trauma units reporting spikes in alcohol-related injuries, violence and accidents — particularly over weekends and peak periods. Dr Mvuyisi… pic.twitter.com/PPpDvKaU5x
— SAfmRadio 📻 (@SAfmRadio) January 1, 2026
The association says hospitals are experiencing a surge in alcohol-related admissions, particularly at emergency units, which is stretching already limited resources and staff capacity.
It urged the public to drink responsibly, warning that excessive alcohol consumption continues to have a direct impact on patient care and the well-being of frontline health workers.
WATCH | Gugu Xaba, CEO of Save the Children South Africa, says several factors contribute to teenage pregnancy in the country, including alcohol abuse and transactional sex, among others. She adds that, in some cases, education is provided but often ignored. pic.twitter.com/owPWFIrH7H
— SABC News (@SABCNews) December 29, 2025
WATCH | Deputy National Commissioner for Policing Lt-General Tebello Mosikili says police have intensified operations nationwide as South Africans prepare to usher in the new year, warning that alcohol remains a major driver of violent crime. pic.twitter.com/mo845ixCnR
— SABC News (@SABCNews) December 31, 2025
“There’s been an outcry about the shortage of doctors that are around, but it’s not only doctors, nurses and other clinicians. Just the other week I was interviewing about specialists also exiting the public sector. It puts pressure on those that are within the system to be able to manage this caseload that is suddenly influxing in December,” says the Association Deputy Chairperson, Zanele Bikitsha.
RELATED VIDEO | Dr Khosi Jiyane on relationships with alcohol
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