Doctors in war-torn Gaza are facing a challenging situation as malnutrition is hindering the recovery of children from their injuries. The collapsing health care system in the region is exacerbating the issue, leading to a growing number of children dying from starvation and dehydration, as reported by the World Health Organization and Palestinian officials.
According to UNICEF, acute malnutrition rates have doubled within just one month among children in northern Gaza. Project Hope, a US-based health and humanitarian aid organization operating in crisis regions, has observed that 5%-15% of children arriving at its clinics in Deir Al-Balah and Rafah are malnourished.
Rondi Anderson from Project Hope emphasized the impact of malnutrition on children's health, stating that it amplifies the fragility of their situation. Malnourished children have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections, which can hinder the healing process and prolong recovery.
Furthermore, doctors who have visited Gaza since the onset of the war have reported a high prevalence of orthopedic injuries such as limb injuries and burns. These injuries require complex and multi-layered treatment approaches to address the physical and psychological impact on the affected children.
