On World Cancer Day: 11,000 cancer patients denied specialized treatment in Gaza
GAZA, Feb. 04 (YPA) – The Ministry of Health in Gaza confirmed on Wednesday that 11,000 cancer patients are deprived of specialized treatment and diagnostic services both inside and outside the Gaza Strip.
In addition, 4,000 patients referred for treatment abroad have been waiting for over two years for the border crossing to open and for travel authorization.
On World Cancer Day, the Ministry described cancer patients in Gaza as facing the harshest hardships and an uncertain fate, noting that the destruction of specialized hospitals, including the Gaza Cancer Center, has exacerbated patient suffering.
The Ministry reported that the capacity to provide care for cancer patients is critically diminished, with severe shortages in chemotherapy medications and diagnostic equipment; 64% of cancer drugs are currently out of stock.
It further noted that the absence of early detection and follow-up tools, including MRI and mammography machines, is exacerbating patients’ health conditions.
Cancer patients, the Ministry emphasized, are facing dire health, social, psychological, and economic challenges.
The Ministry urged all relevant authorities to facilitate patient travel for treatment abroad, ensure the provision of essential medications, and rehabilitate healthcare service centers.
@E.Y.M