Spatial and contextual factors influencing injury patterns and severity resulting from the 2020 Beirut blast

Abstract

This cross-sectional study investigated the factors influencing injury characteristics and outcomes following the 2020 Beirut Blast. Blast victims (n = 310) were identified from hospital registries in Beirut. Soft tissue injuries predominated (N = 276; 88.2%), with most patients struck by objects (N = 261, 84.2%). Minor injuries were common (70.3%), with significant associations noted for eye and internal injuries. Victims were primarily situated 500-1700 m from the blast epicentre (71%), indoors (81%), often in residential dwellings (48%), near windows. Severe injuries, especially musculoskeletal, were more frequent outdoors. Significant associations were found between indoor positioning facing the port and soft tissue injury incidence, and with proximity to windows. A standing posture significantly correlated with musculoskeletal and soft tissue injuries, as well as being struck by objects. A cluster of severe injuries was noted at 600-1400 m radial distance from the blast epicentre. The study underscores the role of spatial and contextual factors in injury patterns post-blast, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions for disaster preparedness and urban resilience to mitigate the impact of future similar events on affected populations.

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