Gaza – The Palestinian Ministry of Health announced the deaths of 50 thalassemia patients. These deaths occurred during the war on the Gaza Strip. The German news agency reported the figures. Medical services within the enclave face an unprecedented deterioration.
The ministry issued a statement on World Thalassemia Day. It said patients in the Gaza Strip face extremely difficult humanitarian and health conditions. Their lives have become a daily battle for survival. This is no longer a continuous treatment journey. It stems from the massive collapse of the health system.
The ministry added that several factors have worsened patient suffering. These factors directly threaten lives. Specialized medicine shortages are a major issue. There is also a scarcity of laboratory testing materials. Blood unit shortages are critical. Several specialized medical centers have been destroyed. These problems are compounded by difficult social conditions. Frequent displacement of residents also plays a role.
The ministry noted 334 registered thalassemia patients in the Strip. Fifty patients died during the war. Another 47 patients have left the Strip. Currently, 237 patients still receive care. Fifty-two of these are under 12 years old. The remaining 185 patients are older.
The ministry warned about the ongoing destruction of laboratory infrastructure. It also highlighted the lack of necessary testing equipment. This equipment is vital for diagnostic and preventive tests. This situation could lead to new, undiagnosed cases. It threatens a major setback for decades-long preventive health efforts.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health urged international health organizations to intervene urgently. It called for increased medical and humanitarian support. The ministry also asked them to highlight the suffering of thalassemia patients. These patients are trapped in what it described as harsh and deadly conditions. The ministry affirmed the current situation undermines global efforts. These efforts aim to curb the disease’s spread. They also seek to improve the quality of life for those affected.