The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) has raised the alarm over a sharp rise in drug use among teenagers in Gauteng, urging parents, schools, communities and policymakers to act urgently as treatment admissions climb to unprecedented levels.
According to new findings from the 58th South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (Sacendu) symposium – covering data from January to June – Gauteng now records the highest number of youthful drug users of all provinces.
Gauteng accounts for more than half of national treatment admissions
The report shows that the province is responsible for 51% of all admissions to substance-use treatment centres across South Africa.
Even more concerning is the rapid increase in first-time, voluntary admissions, especially among teenagers aged 15 to 19.
“This age group now makes up 26% of all admissions in Gauteng, up from 19% in the previous reporting period,” said Nancy Hornsby, senior scientist at the SAMRC.
“By monitoring trends and identifying emerging risks, our programme supports policymakers, healthcare providers and communities in developing effective interventions.”
Dagga remains the leading drug of choice – but polysubstance use is rising
Dagga continues to be the primary substance cited by young patients, accounting for 42% of reported use.
It also remains the most common secondary substance, followed by:
- Methamphetamine (tik) – 22%
- Alcohol – 16%
In addition, 47% of admissions involved polysubstance use – where individuals use more than one drug at a time – a trend experts warn greatly increases health risks.
Hookah pipe trend grows among teens
The report also highlights a spike in hookah pipe (hubbly bubbly) use among teenagers, with Gauteng recording the highest national rates.
SAMRC researchers noted that many teens combine hookah pipe smoking with dagga and alcohol, further heightening the dangers.
Mental health concerns intensify
Hornsby said an increasing number of teens entering treatment reported co-occurring mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression, adding another layer of complexity to the growing crisis.
The SAMRC has urged families, educators and community leaders to step up prevention efforts and ensure young people have access to early support, mental health services and reliable information about the risks of substance use.
