Date of Graduation

Fall 8-18-2022

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Public Health (MPH)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

First Advisor

Prof. Kelly McDermott

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: For 19 years, the Darfur region of Sudan has experienced unending civil unrest and war, resulting in more than 2 million deaths and over 4 million displaced persons. The war led to severe food insecurity, clean and safe drinking water shortages, high disease prevalence, destruction of infrastructure, and a broken health care system. Despite the interventions by the global community and various humanitarian agencies, over 2.8 million people are still displaced and living in IDP camps across Darfur. Over 300,000 children are living in neighboring Chad. The armed conflict led to high levels of child malnutrition, a high prevalence of infectious diseases, and an increased child mortality rate within the region.

Purpose: This review focuses on children aged 0-5 years that are displaced and currently living in IDP camps due to the armed conflict in Darfur. The review aims at addressing the effects of the armed conflict on the health of these children

Recommendations: The review recommends the introduction of WASH and wastes management facilities within camps, a massive child immunization campaign, and the inclusion of nutritious food supplements and therapeutic feeding centers to avert the public health crisis among the children in Darfur.

Conclusion: The recommendations in this review are not limited to the children in Darfur or regions affected by armed conflicts. Humanitarian emergencies disproportionally affect children due to their vulnerability to advocate for themselves, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The recommendations are applicable in most public health crises to improve the health and well-being of children.

Keywords: Effects, Armed conflict, Children’s health, Darfur, Sudan

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