How the war has already affected the health of Ukrainians: an expert explains the consequences
14 June 08:41
Chronic stress, insomnia, and constant anxiety have become new “occupational hazards” for millions of Ukrainians. Without systematic government support, the incidence of chronic diseases could rise by 30% in the near future. Bogdan Bozhuk, Director General of the Y. I. Kundiev Institute of Occupational Medicine, spoke about this in an interview with RBC-Ukraine, reports "Komersant Ukrainian".
“The Price of War”: How Health Has Changed
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, forced displacement, air raid alerts, and instability in the power grid have been added to the traditional health risk factors for Ukrainians.
“Our research shows that Ukrainians now sleep an average of 40 minutes less. Add to this economic uncertainty—the result is constant psychological and emotional strain, increased anxiety, and chronic emotional fatigue,” says Bohdan Bozhuk.
According to the expert, this is already leading to an exacerbation of cardiovascular and endocrine diseases, as well as digestive problems.
Mental Health: 10 Million at Risk
The mental health sector has been hit the hardest. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the number of cases with symptoms of mental disorders (particularly PTSD) has increased 3-5 times.
The situation is critical among those who deal with the consequences of the war on a daily basis. For instance, about 80% of medical staff in frontline regions show signs of professional burnout.
Nationwide, according to expert estimates, about 10 million Ukrainians need help due to deteriorating mental health.
What consequences lie ahead
The expert emphasizes: if Ukraine does not launch large-scale health support and rehabilitation programs, the country will face a serious labor force crisis.
“If nothing is done, we can predict an increase in chronic non-communicable diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions by approximately 20–30%,” warns Bozhuk.
Another danger already being documented at the Institute of Occupational Medicine is the premature aging and disability of the working-age population.
The expert emphasizes: the psychological consequences of the war could be long-lasting, resembling in their complexity the experience of Chernobyl, the effects of which victims have been living with for decades.
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