While addressing the alarming increase of alcohol related cases presenting to the Port Moresby General Hospital Emergency department since New Year’s Day 2021, it is worrying to see a majority of cases being those in their teens,
Surgical Coordinator at PMGH Dr Noah Tapaua said the youngest casualty being just 11 years old and a 17 year old, among the fatalities.
“The youngest is about 11 years old and that is abuse related to alcohol,” stated Dr Tapaua.
“It’s especially the young group that we are seeing. The oldest so far from New Year till now is about 46, but the majority is in the teenage group.”
“Both sexes are equal now. We used to see more males. Now we are seeing both males and females,” Dr Tapaua added.