Medical issues experienced by women and children after returning from Hamas captivity

Among the 250 individuals who were kidnapped during the Hamas terror attack on Israeli towns in October 2023, 19 children and 7 women were released and admitted to Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel after approximately 50 days in captivity, during a cease-fire deal. A new study published in Acta Paediatrica reports on the physical and psychological state of these returnees upon their return.

The most common clinical findings included significant weight loss, psychological trauma, complications of poor hygiene (such as head lice), and complications of recent shrapnel injuries. Tests revealed that returnees also often had gastrointestinal pathogens and various infectious diseases.

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About the Journal
Acta Paediatrica is a peer-reviewed monthly journal at the forefront of international paediatric research. Published on behalf of the Foundation Acta Paediatrica, it covers both clinical and experimental research in all areas of paediatrics.

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