In a concerning development, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has turned its attention to a viral media trend that has surfaced among Kenyan youth: alcohol enemas, commonly referred to as butt chugging.
This alarming practice involves the introduction of alcohol into the body through the rectum, a method that poses severe health risks.
As reports circulate, NACADA is calling for urgent action from stakeholders to address this “dangerous” behavior and protect the well-being of young people across the nation.
Health experts warn that the process of alcohol enemas is particularly hazardous due to the rapid absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream.
Unlike traditional methods of consumption, which allow the body to metabolize alcohol gradually, this method bypasses the body’s natural defenses. As a result, users are at an increased risk of alcohol poisoning, which can manifest through symptoms such as confusion, vomiting, seizures, and even unconsciousness.
The potential for such severe reactions has raised alarm among health officials, prompting NACADA to take a stand against this trend.
In addition to the immediate dangers of alcohol poisoning, the practice can lead to long-term health complications. Direct contact with alcohol can cause significant damage to the delicate tissues of the rectum, resulting in ulcers, rectal bleeding, and even life-threatening infections.
The heightened absorption rate can also lead to sudden unconsciousness, respiratory failure, or, in extreme cases, death. Recognizing these risks, NACADA is urging youth to avoid such perilous practices and to seek healthier alternatives for socializing and recreation.
NACADA rues that social media has played a pivotal role in the spread of the dangerous trend, acknowledging the influence of digital platforms in promoting unconventional and harmful behaviors among young people.
In response, the Authority is calling on all stakeholders—parents, educators, and community leaders—to engage positively with youth, providing guidance and support to counteract the allure of these harmful practices. By fostering open dialogues, they hope to mitigate the impact of adverse information circulating online.
NACADA’s plea
Dr. Anthony O. Omerikwa, the Chief Executive Officer of NACADA, emphasizes the organization’s commitment to the health and well-being of all Kenyans. He urges individuals facing challenges related to alcohol or substance abuse to reach out for help.
NACADA has established a toll-free helpline, 1192, available 24 hours a day, to provide assistance and support. As the Authority works to combat this troubling trend, it remains dedicated to promoting a sober and healthy environment for the youth of Kenya.
