Gaza Health Ministry says 61% of cancer drugs missing as medicine shortage hits 47%
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The Gaza Health Ministry announces that 61 percent of medications used for cancer and blood diseases are depleted, putting patients at risk as treatment protocols fail. Overall medicine shortages have reached 47 percent, with laboratory supplies missing at 85 percent, threatening basic diagnostic services. The crisis deepens even as Israel maintains restrictions on medical and humanitarian aid despite a ceasefire agreement.
The Medicine Shortfall
According to the ministry, 61% of drugs for cancer and blood disorders are out of stock, alongside shortages in maternal and child health (56%), primary care (55%), kidney and dialysis drugs (46%), mental health and neurology (35%), and emergency and ICU medications (33%). Surgical supplies show a 39% deficit, while orthopedic materials are missing at 47%. Laboratory supplies for tests such as complete blood count, blood gas, and clinical biochemistry face an 85% shortfall, severely limiting diagnostic capacity.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The shortages have disrupted treatment protocols, directly threatening the lives of cancer patients and those requiring intensive care. Operating rooms and ICUs are struggling to perform basic diagnostics, with health teams' ability to respond to patients and the wounded compromised. The ministry described the situation as a 'silent catastrophe' as essential health services risk grinding to a halt.
The Blockade's Role
Israel continues its attacks on Gaza and restricts the entry of humanitarian aid, medications, medical consumables, and laboratory equipment despite an active ceasefire, the ministry said. The UN and other international bodies have been urged to take immediate action to facilitate delivery of these critical supplies to Gaza.
What's Next
The ministry has appealed to the United Nations and humanitarian organizations to urgently step up deliveries. It remains uncertain whether the ceasefire will prompt Israel to ease restrictions or if the enclave’s health system will succumb to the deepening shortages.
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Gaza Health Ministry says 61% of cancer drugs missing as medicine shortage hits 47%
