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The scars of war
The five-week war on Lebanon may have been brief in terms of war, but the
horrific devastation, particularly in the south of the country, will have
long-term repercussions. Entire villages were reduced to rubble and in some
places 70% of healthcare facilities have been completely destroyed. Beyond the
physical destruction, thousands of civilians were been killed, maimed and made
homeless. But perhaps worst of all are the terrifying mental scars that the
children will have to bear for the rest of their lives.
In a situation which continues to change significantly from day-today, Middle
East Health provides an overview of the medical state of affairs during the
conflict and after the ceasefire. (See page 24.)
Although the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the Middle East is generally low, the
threat of an epidemic persists, particularly in Iran and Libya. UNAIDS recently
published their report for 2006 – we run an excerpt from the report covering the
MENA region, as well as provide feedback from the XVI International AIDS
Conference, held in Toronto in August. (See page 28.)
Also in this issue you will find features and news about Dubai’s new
state-of-the-art Trauma Center, the largest in the region; the latest research
into the astonishing healing properties of honey; and reports on the state of
the medical export industry in the United States and Canada.
Brian Wilkie
wilkiexp@emirates.net.ae |
(Sep-Oct 2006)
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