Characteristics of injuries among Syrian refugees in Lebanon

Injuries sustained before and during displacement contribute significantly to the health burden of refugees, a challenge compounded by limited access to care in host settings. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, causes, outcomes and impacts of physical injuries among Syrian refugees residing in informal settlements across Lebanon.

A cross-sectional, cluster-sampling survey was conducted among Syrian refugees in informal settlements across three regions in Lebanon: North, Central-Beirut and South. The Surgeons Overseas Assessment of Surgical Need tool was used to collect data on demographics, injuries sustained in the prior 12 months and associated outcomes. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including χ² tests, were used to identify relationships between injuries and household variables.

Among 1468 surveyed households, 3% reported a death in the past 12 months, 15% of which were injury-related. Nearly 19% of households reported at least one injury. Injuries were more common among males (78.1%) and most frequently involved the extremities. Almost 30% of injured individuals experienced reduced ability to work. Injury occurrence was significantly associated with household type, region and size (p<0.01). Falls were most frequent in the Central region (43%), while motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) dominated in the South (42%). Falls were common in children aged 1-10 years and adolescents, whereas MVCs were more prevalent in adolescents and young adults.

Syrian refugees in Lebanon face a high injury burden, affecting daily function and livelihoods. Targeted injury prevention interventions in informal settlements are needed to reduce this burden and its long-term consequences.