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The Devastating Health Impact of Gaza Captivity
(Israel Hayom) Maytal Yasur Beit-Or - Returned hostages are showing severe health impacts including dramatic weight loss of up to 25 kg. (55 pounds), significant muscle deterioration, and complex medical challenges that will require long-term rehabilitation, medical experts told the Knesset Health Committee on Monday. Dr. Michal Mizrachi, director of medical treatment for returned hostages at Ichilov Hospital, said, "the patients still face significant nutritional deficiencies requiring rehabilitation and ongoing care. We've documented substantial functional impairment, including dramatic decreases in physical capabilities resulting from prolonged inactivity." The Ministry of Health has established a specialized clinic for returned hostages in Kiryat Gat. Hanna Katzir, 78, who endured seven weeks of Hamas captivity in Gaza before being released, died in December 2024 at age 78. Her daughter said, "My mother entered captivity taking one blood pressure medication. After 49 days without it, she returned with severe cardiac issues, arrhythmias, and respiratory failure." "The contaminated conditions in Gaza - polluted water, air, and deadly fungi - contributed to her decline. She lost basic functions - walking, standing, using the bathroom, breathing independently. She was sedated and ventilated for months before succumbing to these complications."