PTSD symptoms in war-displaced refugees diagnosed with hypertension or type 2 diabetes: Prevalence and correlates

Abstract

War-displaced refugees are subjected to ongoing mental and somatic health issues that impair their well-being. This study examined the prevalence and risk factors for self-reported PTSD symptoms in war-displaced Syrian refugees residing in Jordan who had been diagnosed with at least with either hypertension or type 2 diabetes. The sample included 165 women (50.3%) and 162 men (49.7%); and 186 (56.7%) were older than 50 years. Self-reported PTSD symptoms were assessed using a validated Arabic scale. Data analysis revealed that 229/327 participants (69.8%) scored above the threshold for severe PTSD symptoms. The multivariable binary logistic regression analysis demonstrated that participants reporting a lack of medications or symptoms of chronic non-specific widespread pain were at significantly higher odds for severe PTSD, respectively. Prompt logistic, medical, and psychiatric care is required to alleviate the high trauma burden in this fragile population.