IMPACT OF THE 2023 WAR IN GAZA ON NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASE SERVICES: EVIDENCE FROM HEALTHCARE FACILITIES

Mohammed Ibrahim Migdad, May Elian, Hassan Abu Obaid*

ABSTRACT

Background: The 2023 war in Gaza caused major disruption to the healthcare system, affecting the delivery of essential services for patients with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. These conditions require continuous follow-up, regular monitoring, and uninterrupted access to medications. Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of the 2023 war in Gaza on the accessibility, continuity, and quality of NCD services across healthcare facilities. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical approach was used, supported by secondary data from recent reports, peer-reviewed studies, and healthcare facility information related to the Gaza Strip. The analysis focused on healthcare facility functionality, medication availability, treatment adherence, patient access to services, and reported barriers to NCD care during and after the conflict. Results: The findings showed that NCD service delivery was severely affected by the war. Fewer than 20% of governmental primary healthcare clinics remained fully operational during peak conflict periods, limiting patients’ access to routine care and follow-up. Medication adherence among patients with diabetes and hypertension declined by nearly 50%, mainly due to medication shortages, restricted mobility, displacement, and insecurity. Delays in treatment and follow-up contributed to poorer glycemic control, uncontrolled blood pressure, and increased risk of complications. Psychological stress, displacement, staff shortages, and damage to healthcare infrastructure further weakened continuity of care. Conclusion: The 2023 war in Gaza critically disrupted NCD services and increased the vulnerability of patients requiring long-term chronic disease management. Strengthening healthcare system resilience, ensuring essential medication supply, supporting primary healthcare services, and integrating NCD care into emergency response plans are urgently needed to reduce preventable morbidity and mortality in conflict-affected settings.

Keywords: Gaza war, non-communicable diseases, diabetes, hypertension, primary healthcare, medication adherence, conflict, health services.