Epidemiology of Health Effects on the Pregnant Female Following a Terrorist Attack

Introduction: The pregnant female is uniquely vulnerable to morbidity and mortality associated with trauma and from secondary exposure to environmental agents during and following a terrorist attack. For clinicians and emergency management planners there are several specific considerations for the pregnant female as a victim of terrorism both in the planning and response phases of a terrorist event.

Methods: A review of scientific, medical, and academic literature pertaining to women and terrorist activities was performed. Common elements, themes, and similarities were analyzed by the investigator to determine trends in injury patterns, distribution of exposed individuals, and the acute and long-term health effects associated with the gravid female and her unborn child.

Results: Several causes of morbidity and mortality among pregnant females and their unborn children as the result of terrorist attacks were discussed in the literature. Physical trauma, toxic inhalation effects, bioterrorism considerations and psychosocial impacts were among those most often discussed. The disaster epidemiology associated with these health events is described as well as strategies for prevention and clinical management of this unique group of victims.

Conclusion: A greater understanding the types of hazards and exposures which may affect a pregnant woman or her unborn child during or following a terrorist attack can assist in developing plans for medical counterterrorism. This epidemiological information can benefit both clinicians and emergency planners in anticipating the potential health and medical needs as well as planning for potential protective actions which can be implemented before or immediately following a terrorist incident.