The impact of conflict on children: the Palestinian experience.
Author: Qouta S, Odeb J.
Source:
The Journal of ambulatory care management, 28(1), 75-79.
Violence permeates all parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Since the onset of
the Al-Aqsa Intifada on the September, 28, 2000, through October 31, 2003, more
than 51,000 Palestinians have been injured and 2700 have been killed. Palestinian
children suffer from various physical aliments due to their disadvantaged
situation, including 10% who suffer from moderate to severe malnutrition. The
children also suffer from significant mental health disorders, including 33% with
acute levels of posttraumatic stress disorder, 49% with moderate levels and 15.6%
low levels. In "hot" areas, 55% of the children have acute levels of
posttraumatic stress disorder, 35% moderate levels, and 9% low levels.