Painful Stories of Cancer Patients in Gaza Amid War
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has exacerbated the plight of cancer patients, with many suffering from inadequate medical care and a lack of essential treatments. Child Islam, a three-year-old leukemia patient, has been bedridden in a hospital for four months, waiting for permission to travel for necessary treatment. His mother, Umm Islam, expressed her frustration over the lack of medical facilities in Gaza, stating that doctors diagnosed her son’s illness without proper equipment. The war has not only deprived children of basic human rights but has also contributed to a surge in cancer cases, with missile radiation and toxic gases cited as potential causes.
The Dire Situation of Cancer Care in Gaza
Reports indicate that there are over 13,000 cancer patients in Gaza, with more than 3,000 diagnosed during the current conflict. The Ministry of Health has warned that more than a thousand patients could lose their lives without urgent treatment abroad. Many patients, like Hanan Al-Husri, a breast cancer patient, have been unable to receive timely diagnoses due to the siege on hospitals. Hanan's condition worsened due to delayed treatment, and she now faces an incurable diagnosis. Patients are relying on diluted chemotherapy doses, which are insufficient for their needs, leading to deteriorating health conditions.
Urgent Need for Medical Referrals and Support
Dr. Fadi Alawneh, a Jordanian oncologist, highlighted the urgent need for medical referrals for cancer patients in Gaza. He performed 20 complex surgeries during his visit, emphasizing that comprehensive treatment is essential for survival. The health sector in Gaza lacks critical resources such as radiotherapy and hormone receptor tests, making it imperative for patients to seek treatment outside the region. Efforts are being made to alleviate the situation, including the establishment of a telemedicine clinic for cancer patients to facilitate remote consultations with specialists. However, the ongoing blockade and lack of resources continue to pose significant challenges for those in need of urgent medical care.
