Short and Long-Term Health Consequences of the 2013 Sarin Attack in Ghouta, Syria: A Retrospective Descriptive Study of Civilian Survivors

Background On August 21, 2013, sarin gas was used as a weapon of war in multiple areas of Ghouta, rural Damascus, Syria, in the largest confirmed chemical weapons attack against civilians in the 21st century. Despite the scale of the attack, little is known about the long-term medical symptoms experienced by survivors. This study aimed to document the lived experiences, short- and long-term physical and psychological consequences of sarin exposure among civilian survivors, more than a decade after the attack. Methods We conducted a retrospective descriptive study based on semi-structured narrative interviews with survivors of the 2013 Ghouta chemical attacks. Participants were selected based on confirmed exposure and willingness to provide detailed accounts of their health status, experiences, and healthcare-seeking behavior. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurrent patterns and outcomes across different domains. Results All participants reported persistent medical symptoms ranging in severity, including chronic respiratory issues, neurological complaints, fatigue, and sensory disturbances. The psychological impact was universal, with widespread reports of anxiety, nightmares, panic attacks, and social withdrawal. Most participants experienced significant disruption to their quality of life and described barriers to accessing healthcare. Conclusions The long-term consequences of sarin exposure in Ghouta extend far beyond the initial event, affecting nearly every aspect of survivors’ lives. These findings highlight the urgent need for sustained medical, psychological, and social support for victims of chemical attacks. Integrating survivor needs into broader frameworks for post-conflict recovery and transitional justice is essential to ensure accountability, recognition, and the right to health.