Study Details Severity of Injuries in Gaza
A British-led study published in Teh BMJ provides detailed data on the pattern and severity of traumatic injuries and medical conditions seen by international health care workers deployed to gaza during the ongoing military invasion.
health care workers describe “unusually severe” traumatic injuries including complex blast injuries, firearm-related injuries, and severe burns. Manny respondents with previous experience of conflicts reported that the pattern and severity of injuries in Gaza were greater than those they had encountered in previous warzones.
It is thought to be the first study to provide such detailed data from frontline clinicians during the conflict, which the authors say offers critical insights into the injuries and conditions most relevant to immediate management, rehabilitation, and long-term health planning.
As October 2023, Gaza has faced high-intensity Israeli bombardment and ground military incursions. Publicly reported figures show that more than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 143,000 wounded during the conflict, but other analyses suggest thes figures may be higher.
To address this gap,health care workers were invited to take part in a survey about the nature and pattern of injuries and medical conditions they managed while in Gaza,ranging from explosive and firearm injuries to infections and chronic diseases.
A total of 78 doctors and nurses completed the survey using log books and shift records between August 2024 and February 2025, within three months of
Gaza Conflict: Trauma Levels Exceed Those Seen in Previous Conflicts, Study Finds
A new study published in The BMJ reveals that the volume, distribution, and severity of injuries sustained during the recent armed conflict in Gaza suggest patterns of harm exceeding those reported in previous modern-day conflicts. Researchers surveyed international healthcare workers who provided medical assistance in Gaza, analyzing data from log books and shift records to assess the scale of trauma.
The study indicates a significant strain on the healthcare system,with responders reporting that the severity and pattern of injuries encountered were greater than those they had previously managed. While acknowledging limitations inherent in relying on log books – particularly during periods of high patient volume and potential for duplication – the authors state further analysis suggests minimal impact on overall estimates.
The findings underscore the critical need for robust, adaptable surveillance systems capable of operating effectively during sustained hostilities, resource limitations, and disruptions in dialog. Such systems are vital for informing targeted surgical,medical,psychological,and rehabilitation interventions.
More information:
Patterns of war related trauma in Gaza during armed conflict: survey study of international healthcare workers, The BMJ (2025). DOI: 10.1136/BMJ-2025-087524
Citation: International health care workers report on war-related injuries among civilians in Gaza (2025, September 25) retrieved September 25, 2025, from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-international-health-workers-war-injuries.html
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