A mini-review on safeguarding global health amidst a "Pandemic" of armed conflicts.

Journal: Medicine

Volume: 103

Issue: 20

Year of Publication: 2024

Affiliated Institutions:  Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria. Department of Medicine and Surgery, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ife, Nigeria. Department of Medicine, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria. Department of Health Sciences, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL. Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.

Abstract summary 

The year 2022 witnessed an alarming surge in state-based armed conflicts globally, reaching a staggering 56, with major hostilities in Ukraine, Myanmar, and Nigeria resulting in over 10,000 estimated conflict-related deaths. This trend continued with the onset of a significant conflict between Israel and Hamas in October 2023. The escalating frequency of armed conflicts, reaching the highest number since 1946, poses a critical threat to global health. This paper explores the multifaceted health impacts of armed conflicts, encompassing physical injuries, infectious diseases, malnutrition, and profound mental health consequences. Healthcare systems in conflict zones face severe strain, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 becomes increasingly challenging. The surge in armed conflicts globally is characterized as a "pandemic," justifying urgent attention. The paper identifies and discusses strategies to safeguard public health in conflict zones, emphasizing humanitarian response, protecting healthcare workers and infrastructure, building preparedness and resilience, and promoting mental health support. In navigating this "pandemic" of armed conflicts, comprehensive strategies are imperative to address the intricate challenges and secure a healthier global future.

Authors & Co-authors:  Kokori Emmanuel E Olatunji Gbolahan G Yusuf Ismaila Ajayi IA Isarinade Timilehin T Moradeyo Akanmu Abdulrahmon A Olatunji Doyin D Akinmoju Olumide O Aderinto Nicholas N

Study Outcome 

Source Link: Visit source

Statistics
Citations :  Trends in armed conflicts. [cited 2023 Nov 10]. https://www.sipri.org/yearbook/2023/02. Accessed December 29, 2023.
Authors :  8
Identifiers
Doi : e37897
SSN : 1536-5964
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Humans
Other Terms
Study Design
Study Approach
Country of Study
Niger
Publication Country
United States