16 Days of Activism: Save the Children South Africa
According to a recent report commissioned by local NGO, Save the Children South Africa, the social and economic burden of violence against children in SA has cost the economy a staggering R238-billion - in 2015 alone.
This was revealed in a study by the UBS Optimus Foundation, which further revealed that victims of sexual abuse are 4,9 times more likely to abuse drugs later in life - compared to those who were not sexually abused as children.
It also found that victims of physical abuse are 1.41% more likely to develop serious mental illness, while victims of emotional abuse are 1.31% more likely to become obese.
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The following infographic highlights the true cost of violence against children in South African society:
Save the Children South Africa is embarking on a five-year crusade to end the scourge of violence against children in SA. To join the campaign, click here.
WATCH: Find out more about the mandate of Save the Children South Africa: