Gaza Children Face Growing Hearing Loss Crisis Amid Limited Medical Care
Doctors and aid workers in Gaza are warning of a growing crisis as increasing numbers of children suffer hearing loss caused by repeated exposure to explosions and bombardment.
Among them is young Wateen al-Ajrami, who lost most of her hearing after an air strike exploded near the shelter where her family was staying in Jabalia. Medical tests showed severe hearing damage in both ears, and doctors say she needs cochlear implant surgery, which is unavailable inside Gaza.
Health and rehabilitation groups estimate that the number of people living with hearing loss in Gaza has risen from around 20,000 before the war to as many as 35,000–40,000 today, including large numbers of children.
Medical experts say blast waves can cause serious inner-ear injuries, brain trauma, and long-term hearing damage. Children with hearing loss face additional dangers during conflict because they cannot hear warnings, explosions, evacuation orders, or approaching vehicles.
Aid organisations report severe shortages of hearing aids, batteries, cochlear implant equipment, and rehabilitation services. Many centres providing speech therapy and support have been damaged or forced to close.
Disability rights advocates warn that continued restrictions on medical supplies and travel for treatment are worsening the crisis. Without urgent intervention, they say an entire generation of children risks losing critical language and communication development opportunities.
Families continue to seek medical referrals outside Gaza, but many children remain on waiting lists as access to specialised treatment remains limited.
