As conflicts intensify across parts of the Middle East, concerns over their far-reaching impact on human health are growing steadily. According to Dr. Dilip Nikam, a cancer specialist at Bombay Hospital, the consequences of war extend far beyond immediate casualties, deeply affecting physical, mental, and public health systems.
Global organizations like the World Health Organization and the United Nations have begun raising alarms over the deteriorating situation. Ongoing hostilities involving countries such as Israel, Iran, and others have led to widespread destruction, including attacks on critical infrastructure like hospitals and energy facilities.
Rising Human Cost
Recent reports of attacks on healthcare facilities, including a deadly strike on a hospital in Afghanistan, highlight the severity of the crisis. Hundreds of patients and healthcare workers have reportedly lost their lives, raising serious questions about the protection of medical services during wartime.
Collapse of Healthcare Systems
Dr. Nikam emphasizes that war leads to the breakdown of healthcare systems, disrupting treatment for chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Shortages of medicines, vaccines, and medical staff further worsen the situation. According to WHO estimates, mortality rates in war zones can increase by 4 to 10 times, while mental health disorders may affect up to 50% of the population.
Mental Health Crisis
One of the most severe yet often overlooked consequences is the psychological trauma caused by war. Conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are widespread among both civilians and soldiers. Studies from conflicts such as the Iraq war indicate that nearly 20% of soldiers experienced PTSD, while up to 40% of civilians suffer from mental health issues. Children are particularly vulnerable. Research from the Gaza Strip suggests that nearly 70% of children show symptoms of trauma. Long-term effects include increased suicide rates and behavioral disorders.
Spread of Diseases and Malnutrition
War conditions often lead to the long infectious diseases due to lack of clean water, sanitation, and food. Diseases like cholera and diarrhea become widespread. In countries like Syria, millions have been affected by such outbreaks. Malnutrition is another critical issue, especially among children, leading to stunted growth and weakened immunity. Displacement of populations into overcrowded refugee camps further aggravates health risks.
Environmental and Social Impact
Wars also cause long-term environmental damage, contaminating air, water, and soil. Historical examples like the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki show increased cancer rates due to radiation exposure.
Socially, conflicts lead to displacement, poverty, and increased violence, including sexual assault. According to UN data, over 100 million people worldwide are currently displaced, many facing severe health challenges.
Call for Prevention and Peace
Dr. Nikam stresses that prevention is the most effective solution, both in healthcare and global conflicts. He urges strict adherence to international agreements like the Geneva Conventions and calls for diplomatic efforts to end ongoing conflicts, including those involving Russia and Ukraine.
He also highlights the need for peace education, conflict management training, and stronger global cooperation to prevent future humanitarian crises.
