Challenges that terrorism poses to public health

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter describes challenges that terrorism poses to public health. It defines terrorism as “politically motivated violence or the threat of violence, especially against civilians, with the intent to instill fear,” and it explores other definitions of terrorism. It provides an overview of the terrorist events in the United States in 2001. It discusses the prevention of terrorism and its consequences. It describes guiding principles for a public health response to terrorism. The chapter also describes major challenges of terrorism for public health, including improving the public health system's capabilities to respond to health consequences of terrorist attacks, controlling terrorist weapons, and addressing factors that may breed terrorism. Finally, the chapter describes roles of health professionals with regard to terrorism, including responding to the health consequences of terrorist acts and threats, developing preparedness for future terrorist acts or threats, and taking steps to help prevent terrorism.