Exploring Barriers and Facilitators to Maintaining Cardiovascular Health Among Syrian Refugees: A Qualitative Study in a Refugee Camp Setting

AIM: To explore the barriers and facilitators to maintaining cardiovascular health among Syrian refugees living in the Zaatari camp. DESIGN: A qualitative study guided by the Social Determinants of Health framework. METHODS: Focus group discussions were conducted with 13 Syrian refugees. Twelve themes were identified, which were further organized into barrier and facilitator categories. Data were transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic analysis. Two coders independently applied inductive and deductive coding, with a third reviewer resolving discrepancies. RESULTS: Barriers included financial constraints, lack of structured daily activities, poor living conditions, long waiting times for medical care, chronic psychological stress, suboptimal access to sports facilities and traditional gender roles with limited employment opportunities. Facilitators included walking, informal sports and home gardening, community advocacy leading to service improvements, positive interactions with refugee healthcare workers, use of the internet and social media for health information, evolving gender roles and strong intra-community support. CONCLUSION: Effective interventions should focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving dietary options and affordability and providing employment opportunities. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Nurses play a crucial role in addressing the barriers to cardiovascular health in refugee settings. Supportive, community-based and culturally tailored approaches can enhance long-term health outcomes. IMPACT: Problem addressed: Limited evidence exists on refugees' experiences of managing cardiovascular health in refugee camp settings. MAIN FINDINGS: Multiple social and structural barriers constrain health management, but community support, self-efforts and refugee healthcare providers act as facilitators. Who and where it impacts: This research informs health professionals and humanitarian actors working with displaced populations in low-resource camp environments. Reporting method: This study adhered to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guidelines. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: A refugee nurse assisted in facilitating the male focus group discussion, ensuring that participants were comfortable and that cultural considerations were respected.