Psychosocial experiences of refugee Gaza children who received cancer treatment in Jordan.

Abstract

Background: Due to war, paediatric cancer patients from Gaza face several healthcare challenges, including frequent treatment disruptions, limited medication supplies, poor infrastructure, psychosocial burden, and war-related trauma.

Aim: To assess the psychosocial status of paediatric cancer patients from Gaza treated at King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC), Jordan.

Methods: Using the psychosocial assessment tool, psychologist observations and caregiver reports, we collected data from 23 paediatric cancer patients aged 1-18 years, from Gaza, who received treatment at KHCC between November 2023 and April 2024. We conducted a retrospective thematic analysis of the data using Braun and Clarke's six-step process.

Results: About half (52%) of the children had leukaemia, while others presented with sarcomas, lymphoma and other tumours. The patients reported emotional stress and sadness due to the war, separation from family, loss, or displacement, reflecting significant mental health challenges. They exhibited symptoms such as fatigue and poor appetite and expressed heightened fear and anxiety regarding their hospital stay and medical treatment. Strong family support was key in helping the children cope, for those who had immediate family members with them.

Conclusion: This study highlights the complex health challenges that paediatric cancer patients from Gaza face and the need for integrated care to improve their physical and psychosocial wellbeing.