Problems of access to healthcare services in the armed conflict zones

Literature review

Authors

  • M.I. Malachinska Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University; Communal noncommercial enterprise of Lviv regional council «Lviv Regional Clinical Perinatal Center», Lviv, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0009-0004-9812-9802

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18370/2309-4117.2024.73.8-13

Keywords:

armed conflict, women’s health, maternal mortality, healthcare access, post-traumatic stress disorder, environmental toxins, nutrition

Abstract

Background. Ongoing military conflicts in various regions of the world have a significant negative impact on women’s health, including access to health services, maternal mortality and general well-being.
Objective of the review: to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impact of war on refugee women, highlighting key areas such as physical health, mental health, reproductive health and access to basic services.
Analysis of literary data. Numerous barriers faced by women in armed conflict are considered. The main problems include insufficient transport connections, financial constraints, poor quality of medical services and cultural norms. The destruction of the health care infrastructure, the lack of medicines and personnel significantly limit the availability of reproductive health care services. These factors contribute to an increase in the number of home births without qualified support, which increases the risk of maternal and child mortality. Also important is the psychological impact of war, including stress, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, which are common among pregnant women.
In addition, malnutrition and environmental toxins further complicate the situation, undermining the health of women and newborns. Thus, conflict-induced food insecurity leads to malnutrition among pregnant and lactating women, causing adverse health outcomes such as anemia, low birth weight, and increased susceptibility to infections. Exposure to environmental toxins from modern weapons, such as heavy metals, poses long-term health risks to pregnant women and their babies. In particular, toxins can affect the emotional and cognitive development of children.
Conclusions. This review highlights the urgent need for comprehensive health services, integrated medical and psychosocial support, and targeted interventions to address these challenges. Improving access to quality health care, ensuring food security and mitigating environmental risks are critical to improving maternal and child health.

Author Biography

M.I. Malachinska, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University; Communal noncommercial enterprise of Lviv regional council «Lviv Regional Clinical Perinatal Center», Lviv

PhD, associate professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department;
director

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Published

2024-10-18

How to Cite

Malachinska, M. (2024). Problems of access to healthcare services in the armed conflict zones: Literature review. REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY, (73), 8–13. https://doi.org/10.18370/2309-4117.2024.73.8-13

Issue

No. 73 (2024)

Section

Health care

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