Born too soon: Premature babies fight for survival in Gaza
Summary
In Gaza, there is a sharp rise in premature births, low-weight newborns, stillbirths, and birth defects since October 7, 2023. These issues are linked to malnutrition, stress, poor prenatal care, and limited hospital resources caused by ongoing conflict and blockades. Hospitals face shortages of incubators, medicine, and power, making it hard to care properly for newborns.Key Facts
- Yazan Al-Khalidi was born prematurely at eight months and needs intensive care due to breathing problems.
- His mother, Noor Salem, lost her first baby during a famine in Gaza caused by ongoing conflict.
- Since October 7, 2023, the number of premature babies and birth complications in Gaza has sharply increased.
- UNICEF reports that 1 in 5 newborns in Gaza requires intensive neonatal or thermal care.
- Causes include malnutrition, psychological stress, displacement, and declining prenatal health services.
- Dr. Afnan Abu Hasaballah notes many pregnant women arrive at hospitals exhausted and stressed due to deprivation and bombings.
- Gaza’s only central neonatal hospital faces shortages of incubators, ventilators, medicines, and has frequent power outages.
- These shortages threaten the health and survival of premature babies who need continuous monitoring and care.
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