@article{ref1,
title="Exploring the self-reported physical and psychological effects in a population exposed to a regional conflict",
journal="Journal of community health",
year="2024",
author="Shamir-Stein, Naama and Feldblum, Ilana and Rotman, Eran and Cohen, Shir and Brand, Einat and Kivity, Sara and Saban, Mor",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Conflict profoundly impacts community health and well-being. While post-conflict research exists, little is known about initial effects during active hostilities. <br><br>OBJECTIVE: To assess self-reported changes in health behaviors, distress, and care access within one month of regional warfare onset in a conflict-affected community. <br><br>METHODS: An online survey was conducted in November 2023 among 501 residents (mean age 40.5 years) of a community where war began October 7th. Measures evaluated physical health, mental health, diet, substance use, sleep, weight changes, and healthcare access before and after the declaration of war. <br><br>RESULTS: Relative to pre-war, respondents reported significantly increased rates of tobacco (56%) and alcohol (15%) consumption, worsening sleep quality (63%), elevated distress (18% sought help; 14% needed but didn't receive it), and postponed medical care (36%). Over a third reported weight changes. Distress was higher among females and those endorsing maladaptive coping. <br><br>CONCLUSION: Within one month, substantial impacts on community psychosocial and behavioral health emerged. Unmet mental health needs and risk-taking behaviors were early indicators of conflict's health consequences. Continuous monitoring of conflict-affected communities is needed to inform tailored interventions promoting resilience and prevent entrenchment of harms over time.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0094-5145",
doi="10.1007/s10900-024-01337-6",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10900-024-01337-6"
}