Study of civilian victims of terrorist attacks (France 1982-1987)

Abstract

The medical and psychological consequences of terrorism were assessed through an epidemiologic survey of 254 survivors of terrorist attacks (TA) that occurred in public places in France between 1982 and 1987 (20 bombings and 1 machine-gun attack). Physical lesions were typical of bombings (blast syndrome, burn, coma), but amputations were rare. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was present in 10.5% of uninjured victims, 8.3% of moderately injured and 30.7% of severely injured ones. Major depression was found in 13.3% of all victims, with no difference according to the level of the injury. Prevalence rates were not different in males and females, nor did they vary with age of the victim. The prevalence of PTSD was not associated with the delay between TA and questionnaire completion. These findings suggest the need for including psychiatric assistance in the initial care of TA victims, especially severely injured ones.