PREVALENCE OF ANXIETY SYMPTOMS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG ADULTS IN NORTHWEST SYRIA

Abstract

Introduction: In Northwest Syria, an area plagued by persistent conflict and instability, our understanding of the prevalence of anxiety remains limited. The aim of this study is to assess the occurrence of anxiety symptoms among adults living in Northwest Syria. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted with a cross-sectional approach, this research delves into the adult population residing in designated sub-districts of Northwest Syria, with a special emphasis on the Idlib district, covering both Idlib city and Atmeh camps. Targeting individuals aged 18 years and older, the study employed a straightforward random sampling method to recruit participants from these localities. Results: A total of 890 adults participated to the study. Nearly half of the participants (49%) identified as male, while over half (58%) were below 40 years old, and the majority (79%) were married. The findings revealed that 75% of participants exhibited symptoms of anxiety. Moreover, prolonged mobile phone usage, exceeding 4 hours daily, exhibited a correlation with heightened anxiety symptoms prevalence. Notably, geographical location acted as a modifier in the relationship between anxiety symptoms and mobile phone usage. Specifically, individuals in Idlib city demonstrated increased odds of anxiety symptoms with excessive phone usage. Conclusion: The study revealed a significant increase in anxiety symptoms, notably associated with excessive mobile phone usage, geographical location, gender, and income level. Women and those with lower incomes were notably vulnerable, with discernible variations observed across specific locations. Various factors, including those highlighted in the findings, alongside external influences such as the recent earthquake and persistent political unrest, collectively contribute to heightened susceptibility to anxiety among individuals in this region.