Gaza doctors warn of permanent stunting in children due to famine

Doctors at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis are witnessing a disturbing trend among Gaza’s children. Beyond immediate hunger, they see stunted growth that may permanently alter an entire generation. This crisis stems from prolonged nutritional deprivation during critical developmental periods since the war began.

Tahrir Zidan brings his five-year-old daughter Tala to the malnutrition clinic regularly. She stands only 94 centimeters tall, far below the average of 109 to 110 centimeters for her age. Her weight has barely changed in two years, and she sometimes loses weight despite repeated visits for nutritional supplements.

Zidan, now displaced in Mawasi, cannot afford a balanced diet for his three children. Two suffer from malnutrition. He relies on charitable kitchens, stating, "The meal I obtain from the charity kitchen usually finishes while most of us are still hungry." He has not bought meat or fruit since the war started.

Dr. Ahmad al-Farra, head of pediatrics at Nasser Hospital, sees dozens of such cases daily. He warns that the catastrophic consequences of malnutrition are becoming visible. The primary issue emerging is short stature, which he attributes to the Israeli-engineered famine and severe food shortages affecting Gaza residents.

Isra al-Najjar, head of Clinical Nutrition, notes a monthly increase in stunting cases. Between three and ten new cases are identified daily. Stunting is measured by height-for-age standards. Deficiencies in protein and healthy fats during the 2025 famine have significantly impacted children's overall growth and physical development.

The effects extend beyond physical size. Al-Farra explains that neurological and cognitive damage may not be fully reversible even if nutrition improves. He fears a generation will face chronic health issues, delayed mental development, and reduced intellectual capacity, creating an intergenerational cycle of poor health and diminished future potential.