Civilians face increasing harm from deadly explosive weapons, 17-country study finds
Medical Xpress
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A groundbreaking University of Queensland study reveals that nearly 90% of individuals killed or injured by landmines and similar explosive weapons are civilians. This alarming finding is based on an analysis of over 105,000 casualties in 17 countries and regions across Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America. Conducted by Dr. Stacey Pizzino and her research team from UQ's School of Public Health, the study underscores the devastating impact of these weapons on civilian populations.
The research highlights that landmines and explosive devices not only cause immediate fatalities but also leave many survivors with severe physical injuries, psychological trauma, and long-term disabilities. These injuries place significant strain on healthcare systems, particularly in conflict-affected regions where access to medical care is already limited. The study emphasizes the urgent need for global efforts to address the humanitarian crisis caused by these weapons.
For readers interested in health, this study sheds light on the profound public health implications of armed conflicts. The high proportion of civilian casualties underscores the importance of prioritizing measures to protect non-combatants and
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/25/2026