Dire Healthcare Crisis Unfolds in Artsakh as Blockade Takes its Toll

The Artsakh blockade, resulting from the months-long blockage of the crucial Lachin Corridor by Azerbaijan, has triggered a concerning surge in mortality and morbidity rates, warns the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Artsakh.

The prolonged blockade, now spanning eight months, has had severe consequences on the healthcare system and well-being of the population, leading to acute shortages of medications and food. The resulting stress and restricted access to essential resources have significantly contributed to a worrisome increase in disease rates and complications compared to previous years.

Key highlights from the healthcare ministry's report shed light on the alarming impact:

1. The total number of deaths in the first seven months of the year, from January to July, has seen a staggering rise in mortality from cardiovascular diseases, increasing by more than 2 times. Notable increases include a 66% rise in mortality from acute and chronic heart failure, a 20.8% increase in mortality from acute myocardial infarction, and an 8.8% increase in mortality from brain paralysis.

2. Deaths caused by malignant neoplasms have surged by 15.9% over the same period. The scarcity of essential medications, diminished quality of life, and restricted medical assistance have been identified as contributing factors.

3. New cases of acute cerebrovascular accidents (stroke) and acute myocardial infarctions have risen by 26% and 9.7% respectively.

4. Newly diagnosed cases of malignant neoplasms have surged by 24.3% from January to July.

5. Pregnant women under medical observation have experienced a staggering level of anemia, reaching around 90%, due to inadequate nutrition and insufficient access to medications.

6. Medically indicated abortions have seen a fourfold increase in July, attributed to stress, improper nutrition, and lack of essential medications.

7. Cases of fainting (collapses) have surged by 91% in July compared to the previous year.

8. Emergency calls for high blood pressure cases have seen a sharp 5.6-fold increase in July compared to the same period last year.

The grim escalation in these health indicators is attributed to the blockade's severe impact, encompassing shortages of medications, inadequate nutrition, stress, suspended medical procedures, and restricted access to care both within Armenia and abroad.

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Artsakh has issued a grave warning about the potential for further deterioration if the full blockade by Azerbaijan continues. The healthcare system, despite its efforts, is constrained by the inability to provide comprehensive solutions due to the complete blockade of movement through the Lachin Corridor.

As the crisis deepens, urgent international attention is needed to address the dire healthcare situation in Artsakh and prevent the further loss of lives and deterioration of health among its population.