The effect of armed conflict on public health and strengthening of healthcare system during and post -armed conflict in Sudan

Abstract

Background: Armed conflict has catastrophic effect on public health and overall wellbeing including causalities during war, long lasting physical and psychological effects, the reduction in human and financial resources which available to meet social needs and creation of setting in which violence is primary domain this issues clearly appeared in Sudan since conflict between Sudan army force and Rapid response force in 15th of April 2023. Methodology: This review aimed to reflect the effect of armed conflict on public health especially vulnerable groups and create plan for reform of collapsed health system during and after war in Sudan. Comprehensive review for previous related article using Pub –med, Google scholar Lancet and records from Federal and Local Ministry of Health in Sudan was done. Also SWOT analysis for current complexes was done to detect problems and achieve solutions. Results: The study reflects the effect of armed conflict on public health in countries suffered from war. The vulnerable populations those sufferings during war are elderly, children, neonates and women. SWOT analysis for current situation in Sudan reflects devastating effect of war in healthcare system. The study also offering a plan for strengthening of healthcare system which build on decentralization policy, Innovation related to community healthcare workers (CHWs) adoption and health-financing system strengthens. Conclusion: Strengthening of healthcare systems after disasters is an urgent concern, especially in countries that have experienced armed conflict due to great impact on public health. However, since few studies have been conducted concerning this topic in Sudan, further research is recommended.