Children in conflict zones-need for reappraisal

War and conflicts can have a profound and lasting impact on the emotional, cognitive, behavioral and physiological functioning of an individual. Depending on the circumstances, the psychosocial impacts of disasters can range from mild stress reactions to problems such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorders (PTSD). Widespread poverty and hunger, as well as the lack of clean drinking water, basic sanitation and public health infrastructure have led to outbreaks of communicable diseases such as measles, hepatitis A and E, cholera, polio, malaria, tuberculosis, whooping cough and diarrhoeal diseases. Intentional starvation (sometimes used in war), infectious diseases and diarrhoeal diseases can give rise to malnutrition, thereby affecting physical and mental development. The consequences of war can have major impact on the health of children for years to come.

Autorentext

The author is a Pediatrician in Indian Army, who has worked with children in conflict zones in Afghanistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and India.