Physiological and mental health effects of the ongoing civil war among North, Northwestern and Central Ethiopia. A systematic review

Abstract

The Ethiopian civil war that erupted in November 2020 has led to a humanitarian crisis marked by displacement, loss of life, and food shortages, impacting North and Central Ethiopia. This systematic review, comprising 14 selected articles from an initial pool of 26, investigates mental health effects and physiological presentations in conflict-affected populations. Results indicate a significant prevalence of mental health disorders, especially PTSD and perceived stress, with alarming rates in specific regions. The ongoing conflict has adversely affected healthcare services, resulting in low vaccination rates, non-functional health facilities, and increased infectious diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis. This systematic review underscores the urgent need for interventions addressing mental health challenges in Ethiopia's conflict-affected regions, emphasizing the multifaceted impact of the war on both mental health and infectious disease prevalence.