The increasing prevalence of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats presents a significant global security concern, particularly in regions which are under conflict and terrorism. This review evaluates the risks associated with chemical warfare agents (CWAs), their pathophysiology, clinical effects, and medical management strategies. It highlights the historical context of CWAs, their mechanisms of toxicity—including nerve, blister, blood, and choking agents—and the severe physiological consequences they impose. More focus is placed on medical preparedness, including early detection systems, protective measures, decontamination protocols, and antidotal therapies essential for mitigating CBRN-related casualties. The role of healthcare professionals is underscored, particularly in rapid triage, treatment strategies, and the necessity of international collaboration in enhancing CBRN defense mechanisms. It is highly recommended that strengthening medical CBRN defense through improved health monitoring, early detection, protective measures, emergency response, and global collaboration is crucial for mitigating the growing threat of CBRN attacks.
Keywords: CBRN threats; Chemical warfare agents; Decontamination; Emergency Medicine; Emergency preparedness; Health care managment; Medical response; Public Health; Terrorism
