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Aiom warns of asbestos contamination in Gaza war debris
The Italian Association of Medical Oncology (Aiom) has issued an alarm regarding the environmental and health consequences of the war in Gaza. The conflict has generated approximately 61 million tons of debris, an amount equivalent to the volume of 25 Eiffel Towers. Experts estimate that 15% of this rubble is contaminated with asbestos, heavy metals, or industrial waste.
This contamination poses a long-term health risk to the population, increasing the likelihood of developing cancers such as mesothelioma, lung, larynx, and ovarian carcinomas. Furthermore, the war has effectively halted oncological care in Palestinian territories, disrupting diagnoses, treatments, and the supply chains for essential medications.
During the Ethics Days in Erice, Aiom and its foundation addressed the intersection of war, global health, and oncology. Italian oncologists have signaled their adherence to a World Health Organization manifesto published in The Lancet, aiming to improve cancer care in conflict zones. Proposed actions include fundraising for the reconstruction of oncological infrastructure and providing support to medical personnel.
Entities
Aiom · Gaza · Massimo Di Maio · The Lancet · World Health Organization
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Oncological care in Palestinian territories has been completely halted by the war. www.codirp.it · www.spazio50.org · www.quotidianodelsud.it
- [● 3 SOURCES] Cancer patients in conflict regions face shortages of anticancer drugs and damaged hospital infrastructure. www.codirp.it · www.spazio50.org · www.quotidianodelsud.it
- [● 3 SOURCES] The war in Gaza has generated 61 million tons of debris. www.codirp.it · www.spazio50.org · www.quotidianodelsud.it
- [● 3 SOURCES] An estimated 15% of the debris in Gaza is contaminated with asbestos, industrial waste, or heavy metals. www.codirp.it · www.spazio50.org · www.quotidianodelsud.it