Prevalence and risk factors of post-traumatic stress disorder among 2023 earthquake survivors in Syria and Turkey: A multinational cross-sectional study

J Int Med Res. 2026 Jul;54(7):3000605261464268. doi: 10.1177/03000605261464268. Epub 2026 Jul 6.

ABSTRACT

ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder and its associated risk factors among survivors of the 2023 earthquake in Syria and Turkey.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted between February and May 2024, 1 year after the earthquake, in both countries. A total of 1568 participants were included. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and face-to-face interviews. Post-traumatic stress disorder prevalence was assessed using the PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version, and social support was evaluated using the Oslo Social Support Scale.ResultsAmong participants, 388 (24.7%) were classified as having probable post-traumatic stress disorder. Significant risk factors included female sex (odds ratio: 1.670, p < 0.001), poor social support (odds ratio: 2.051, p < 0.001), and pre-earthquake displacement (odds ratio: 1.726, p < 0.001). Post-trauma factors associated with post-traumatic stress disorder included experiencing a nervous breakdown (odds ratio: 3.185, p < 0.001), sustaining an injury (odds ratio: 2.075, p = 0.001), changing residence because of earthquake (odds ratio: 1.628, p = 0.004), and experiencing suicidal thoughts (odds ratio: 2.159, p < 0.001). Higher education and receiving support after the earthquake were associated with lower post-traumatic stress disorder prevalence (p = 0.004 and p = 0.002, respectively).ConclusionThe present study found a post-traumatic stress disorder prevalence of 24.7%, 1 year after the earthquake. Female sex, poor social support, pre-earthquake displacement, and post-trauma factors including nervous breakdown, injury, residence change, and suicidal thoughts were significantly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder.

PMID:42403111 | DOI:10.1177/03000605261464268