As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve amidst ongoing conflict, the harrowing experiences of individuals like Hamza al-Ghazali reveal the profound impact of war on those with chronic health conditions. For Hamza—a 20-year-old living with Type 1 diabetes—the quest for essential medical supplies increasingly turns into a desperate fight for survival. This article sheds light on the endurance of the Gaza community and highlights the alarming health challenges exacerbated by the persistent blockade and resource shortages.
In the early hours of yet another challenging day during the ongoing conflict in Gaza, 20-year-old Hamza al-Ghazali, a resident of the Zeitoun neighborhood south of Gaza City, embarked on his relentless search for an insulin pen—a task that has become tragically routine since the intensification of hostilities in October 2023. The war has not only exacerbated existing health issues but has severely restricted the entry of vital medical supplies into the Gaza Strip, particularly affecting those who depend on critical medications.
Hamza is acutely aware of the life-threatening implications of delaying his insulin dose, as Type 1 diabetes necessitates strict adherence to daily treatment and rigorous monitoring. Yet, amid the chaos of war and the accompanying blockade, managing this chronic illness has devolved into a precarious struggle for survival. Previously, Hamza could buy insulin pens from local pharmacies for prices ranging between 25 and 35 shekels (approximately .50 to ). However, since the onset of war, the cost has skyrocketed to between 75 and 100 shekels ( to ), compelling him to extend the usability of each pen far beyond its intended duration.
The ongoing conflict has led to widespread shortages of insulin, glucose meters, and test strips—a situation that has continued to deteriorate, leaving many patients in critical need. Hamza noted that the black market for low-quality medications, sometimes improperly stored, raises concerns over their safety and efficacy, posing additional health risks for those already suffering.
Last year, acute food shortages due to the blockade forced Hamza to consume whatever he could find, further complicating his diabetes management. The delicate balance between food intake and insulin administration became a matter of life and death. He experienced constant fear: if he consumed too much without enough insulin, he risked dangerously high blood sugar levels, while insufficient food could lead to severe hypoglycemia.
Amid the stress of evacuation orders during bombings, Hamza instinctively prioritizes his “diabetes bag” packed with essential medications. This preparation underscores the traumatic reality faced by countless individuals in Gaza.
Compounding his challenges is a severe lack of glucose test strips, which has made it impossible to monitor blood sugar levels accurately. With the price of glucose meters ranging from 250 to 300 shekels ( to 0) and the unavailability of test strips, many patients are left to guess their treatment regimen, putting their health in jeopardy. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, up to 80,000 patients in Gaza face significant risks tied to these shortages.
Dr. Adli al-Ghouti, an endocrinology and diabetes specialist, emphasized the dire situation for approximately 2,500 children in Gaza who live with Type 1 diabetes, many of whom are in critical condition. Insulin quality is deteriorating due to power outages and improper storage, presenting a dangerous false sense of security for those relying on outdated supplies. The consequences could be catastrophic, leading to severe health repercussions such as diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
As Gaza endures ongoing adversity, the realities of managing diabetes have become increasingly grim. The shortage of insulin, insufficient testing tools, rising costs, and deteriorating nutrition transform even the most basic medical needs into a treacherous battle for survival. Community resilience remains strong, yet urgent action is essential to address the humanitarian crisis affecting individuals like Hamza.
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