Gaza conflict exacerbates autoimmune disorders in children, health workers warn

Healthcare providers working in Gaza have documented increasing cases of autoimmune diseases being triggered or worsened in children during the ongoing conflict, raising concerns about the long-term health impact on the region's youngest population.

Medical staff attribute the rise partly to prolonged psychological stress, malnutrition, limited access to medications, and disrupted healthcare services resulting from the conflict. Autoimmune conditions, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, are known to be triggered or exacerbated by severe stress and poor living conditions.

The situation is compounded by shortages of essential treatments and diagnostic facilities. Health workers report difficulty in monitoring and managing children already diagnosed with autoimmune conditions, as well as challenges in identifying new cases amid the humanitarian crisis.

International health organizations have flagged the deteriorating conditions facing Gaza's civilian population, including children, as a significant public health concern requiring urgent attention and medical support.