Exploring the Types and Causes of Stampede-Related Injuries in Religious Mass Gatherings in Asia: A Systematic Review

The present study was conducted to identify the types and underlying causes of human stampede incidents resulting in fatalities and injuries during religious mass gatherings. The PRISMA guidelines were followed to conduct this systematic review. The protocol for this review has been registered in PROSPERO under the code CRD42024529095. Relevant studies were extracted from reliable data sources, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar, ISC, SID, and MagIran. Finally, thematic analysis was used to analyze the obtained data. Among the 842 primary studies identified, 22 aligned with the research objectives following the removal of duplicates and screening procedures. The thematic content analysis delineated principal categories: human factors, physical factors, and environmental factors. These categories were further subdivided into eight subcategories: population characteristics, movement of pilgrims, individual attributes of pilgrims, natural factors, man-made factors, social factors, cultural factors, and political factors. Establishing a global database to document human stampedes and their causes can help identify contributing factors and prevent future incidents. Enhancing our understanding of these events, alongside incorporating religious teachings on self-preservation and assisting others, can reduce their likelihood. Educating pilgrims before their journeys may also be an effective strategy.