The Palestinian Ministry of Health in the besieged Gaza Strip said the Israeli blockade on the enclave has led to the death of 3,000 cancer patients.

“The ministry is making a great effort to address the environmental factors that cause many diseases resulting from pollution, such as cancer, respiratory diseases and strokes,” the ministry said in a statement, adding that it is also working to mitigate the impact of the blockade on treatment.

Yesterday, to mark World Health Day, the ministry launched a global appeal to enhance health and environmental factors in Gaza, and develop health services provided to patients, especially those battling cancer and blood diseases.

“The Israeli occupation and its continuous siege of more than 15 years have turned the Gaza Strip into a geographic spot infected with the causes of environmental pollution, and put many challenges ahead of the health system,” it added.

According to the statement, Israel deprives patients of 47 per cent of essential medicines, 21 per cent of medical consumables, and 60 per cent of laboratory supplies. “Forty per cent of patients were denied permission to leave the Gaza Strip for treatment, which caused the death of hundreds of them during the 15 years of siege,” the statement continued.

Source Middle East Monitor

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