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The struggle for medicine: A valid and reliable cross-sectional study on the impact of war on healthcare access and its consequences for displaced Sudanese citizens

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Armed conflicts severely impact healthcare systems leading to medication shortages and restricted access to essential services. The ongoing war in Sudan has disrupted healthcare infrastructure affecting patients particularly those with chronic diseases. This study examines the accessibility of medications and the consequences of limited healthcare access during the conflict. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals affected by the Sudan war. Data were collected through an online questionnaire assessing medication accessibility, healthcare service availability, and socioeconomic factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS to examine correlations between accessibility and health outcomes. Out of 300 participants, 56.7% reported poor medication accessibility while 43.3% had to relocate due to a lack of medical care. 65.7% experienced worsening health condition and 61.3% believed medication shortages contributed to increased mortality. Low-income and unemployed individuals faced the greatest challenges in accessing medications. The Sudan war has significantly disrupted healthcare access with severe consequences for medication availability and patient health. Urgent humanitarian interventions and policy measures are needed to restore medication supply chains and improve healthcare access for conflict-affected populations.

Source: PLOS Global Public Health

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0004867