Gaza war reduces life expectancy by 35 years, study says
A study published in The Lancet has revealed a dramatic decline in life expectancy in Gaza, dropping from 75.5 years to 40.5 years by September 2024 due to the ongoing Israeli conflict. The figures represent a loss of 35 years, with researchers warning the actual average could be even lower.
The study, conducted by the University of Pennsylvania, analyzed data from Gaza’s health authorities, UN refugee lists, and census records. Researchers only considered deaths caused by war injuries, potentially underestimating the broader impact, which includes casualties from the collapse of healthcare systems.
“Our findings indicate that the war in Gaza has nearly halved pre-war life expectancy within the first year of conflict,” the study stated.
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 47,000 people have died since the war began in October 2023. The UN Human Rights Office has verified 8,119 deaths between November 2023 and April 2024, with 44% of victims being children and 26% women. Most fatalities occurred in residential areas.
Researchers noted their estimates excluded individuals still missing or trapped under rubble and the indirect effects of the war on mortality. A separate Lancet study suggests the 47,000-casualty figure could be underestimated by 40%.
