Protecting the health of the most vulnerable in the overlooked Democratic Republic of Congo crisis.

Journal: Health science reports

Volume: 7

Issue: 8

Year of Publication: 

Affiliated Institutions:  Youth On Board Organization (YOBO) Blantyre Malawi. Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College Krakow Poland. eHealth Africa Kano State Nigeria.

Abstract summary 

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a humanitarian crisis due to prolonged conflicts, human rights abuses, and gender-based violence. This perspective article aims to discuss the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in the DRC, including the impact of interventions and broader humanitarian strategies.A search on Google Scholar was carried out to identify relevant journal articles. Additionally, relevant reports and data on the DR Congo crisis were sourced from the websites of international and humanitarian organizations including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, World Health Organization, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and the Norwegian Refugee Council.The crisis has led to 6.1 million displaced individuals and 1 million seeking asylum in neighboring countries. Insecurity and displacement further exacerbate the crisis, exacerbating health issues and malnutrition, particularly among women and children. The deterioration of water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure in the region facilitates the spread of infectious diseases. The UN has appealed for $8.3 billion in humanitarian assistance in West and Central Africa, including DRC. However, more attention and efforts are needed to curb the menace of the conflict.Addressing root causes like political volatility, economic disparity, and social unrest is crucial for sustained health protection. Tailoring humanitarian assistance to the context of conflict is essential, prioritizing mental health support and psychosocial services. Improving access to healthcare is crucial. Addressing food insecurity is essential, involving targeted food assistance programs, improving agricultural practices, and establishing income-generating activities. Sustaining international assistance and investments are needed to address the health needs of the most vulnerable populations.

Authors & Co-authors:  Phiri Sandra S SS George Nsikakabasi S NS Iseghehi Lucky L

Study Outcome 

Source Link: Visit source

Statistics
Citations :  Global Humanitarian Overview 2024 . United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA); 2023. Accessed March 12, 2024. https://www.unocha.org/publications/report/world/global-humanitarian-overview-2024-enarfrsp
Authors :  3
Identifiers
Doi : e70011
SSN : 2398-8835
Study Population
Women
Mesh Terms
Other Terms
DR Congo;displaced people;food insecurity;humanitarian crisis;social determinants of health
Study Design
Study Approach
Country of Study
Democratic republic of Congo
Publication Country
United States