The Syrian Crisis: Refugees. Thematic Group C: Contribution from the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED)

Abstract

The current Syrian conflict has caused a massive population displacement, reportedly the biggest since the Second World War. Six years after the beginning of the war, experiences of these Syrians who fled conflict have been long and diversified. However, information has been scarce until recently. We aim to assess the impact of the current Syrian crisis on health and well-being of people who have fled war to neighbouring and transcontinental countries. Many aspects must be taken into account to understand the current health status of Syrian refugees. The demographic and epidemiological situation before the war determines the frequency of different diseases; but disruption of public health services has enabled the spread of previously rare conditions. Violence has increased the burden of injuries and mental diseases. Finally, a sudden disruption of daily routine to undertake uncertain and perilous journeys also determines the patterns of disease