003: Children of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Children are innocents meant to be protected, shielded from the terrors of the world. And yet, places such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) throw them, like pawns, into the midst of wars. In fact, almost 60% of the combatants of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are children in between the ages of eight and sixteen years old. At as young as six years old, these kids are taught how to fight their enemies... and how to kill.

The impacts of war are great, both on the mind and body. Trauma is not so easily overcome, so it is not only the injuries sustained during the battled to be feared, but also those which come after. Children who have not even reached their full potential yet as an adult are not meant to go through such harsh treatment as the experience of war. Even the most healthy, strong, middle aged man often comes back with post traumatic stress disorder, which has been linked to unexplained disease in organs as well.

According to Arch Gen Psychiatry, even after the war, the body fights an internal battle. Cardiac disease, gastrointestinal illness, and neurological disorders are common in veterans. For children, whose minds are still being shaped and who still have not even touched their peak years, these extensive consequences are only harsher. The source also stated that, "younger soldiers (< 18 years old), compared to older enlistees (> 30 years old), showed higher mortality risk."

Image credits to Accord (hyperlinked)

Problems with the heart can be grave, and reduce the quality of life for a person in a major way. Of those diagnosed with heart disease, even with recent technological advancements, 50% of patients have a life expectancy of about five years—and that's not even considering those with advanced heart failure. 90% of those suffering from this disease pass away within the year itself. For a child, who has a life full of possibilities in front of them, heart disease can be the factor which can pull them from their dreams, families, and homes, and lead them into mortality.

Gastrointestinal diseases can be painful, and cause issues ranging from a need for dietary restriction to even internal bleeding. Since there is a range in the severity of these problems, many overlook them as simply a nuisance. However, for children who barely have access to the food and water they need, having to watch their diet to live comfortably is not an option. From having to work hard, and also being unable to be picky, in culmination, these can be serious disorders which can have even more serious consequences.

However, three dimensional bioprinting can help those who have been through these experiences and are suffering from these ailments. By providing a way to receive transplants, and by which they can lead a more comfortable, productive, and healthy lifestyle, bioprinting not only makes their lives better, but could also be the thing to save them. Have some heart, for children may enjoy playing soldier, but the real thing is nothing close to a game.

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