Conflict related healthcare disruption among sudanese patients with hypertension and diabetes

Sci Rep. 2026 Jul 6. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-60483-0. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has caused significant disruptions to the healthcare system, leading to critical gaps in the treatment of non-communicable diseases for displaced populations. This study aimed to assess the impact of war on access to care and disease management among Sudanese individuals with hypertension and diabetes. A descriptive cross-sectional qualitative and quantitative study was conducted between September 2024 and March 2025, involving 608 adult Sudanese participants with diabetes and/or hypertension. Structured interviews were used to gather quantitative data. For qualitative insights, twenty in-depth semi-structured interviews were performed. Chi-square and binary logistic regression tests were used for quantitative analysis (significance set at p < 0.05). Thematic content analysis was performed on qualitative data. Most participants (79.1%) were displaced due to the conflict. The mean age was 51.6 years, and 62.8% were females. Diabetes was reported by 41.8% of participants, hypertension by 38.3%, while 20.7% were diagnosed with both conditions. Worsened disease control was reported by 79%, and 78.6% missed follow-up care. Widespread mental health decline (82.6%) and economic deterioration (92%) were reported. Direct physical harm affected 11.5% of participants, while 52.3% reported harm to relatives. Mental health decline (p < 0.001) and irregular follow-up (p = 0.007) were significantly correlated with disease management. Medication costs and healthcare access barriers further compromised care. Qualitative findings revealed three interconnected themes: healthcare system collapse, psychological trauma, and economic devastation synergistically undermining chronic disease control. The Sudan conflict has severely disrupted hypertension and diabetes care, creating a critical convergence of poorly controlled disease, mental health deterioration, and economic instability. There is an urgent need for integrated interventions for displaced populations, including mobile health care units, medication supply chains, mental health integration, and economic support.

PMID:42409942 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-026-60483-0