Patient presentations at medical clinics during the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib mass gathering, Najaf, Iraq, 2024: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: Religious mass gatherings in Iraq attract millions of pilgrims and have significant public health challenges. The martyrdom anniversary of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (peace be upon him) in Najaf involves high population density and potential health risks. However, limited data exists on the spectrum of patient presentations during this event. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study in 12 health facilities (10 temporary mobile clinics and 2 fixed centers) established in Najaf for the event. The study was conducted from March 29 to April 1, 2024 (18–21 Ramadan 1445H). Data was collected by convenience sampling, entered via KoboToolbox, and analyzed in SPSS version 26 using descriptive statistics and chi-squared tests. Results: A total of 8,959 patients were registered. Most were aged 31–60 years (58.2%) and Iraqi nationals (80.8%). The most common acute infectious presentation was pharyngitis (16.7%: 95% CI: 15.9,17.4), followed by acute diarrhea (3.2%: 95% CI: 2.9,3.6). Noncommunicable conditions included hypertension (11.5%; 95% CI: 10.9,12.2), and diabetes mellitus (7.9%; 95% CI: 7.3,8.4). Patient presentations varied significantly by age group and nationality (P< 0.001). Conclusion: Pharyngitis was the leading acute presentation, suggesting a risk of respiratory disease transmission. Chronic conditions, particularly hypertension and diabetes, especially among adults over 31 years. These findings highlight the need for preparedness of temporary clinics to manage both communicable and noncommunicable diseases during religious mass gatherings in Iraq.