Women accounted for the majority of respondents in all three national surveys conducted by Direct Energy Weapons Agency, Inc. (DEWA) as part of its first annual Civilian Count initiative, the nonprofit announced. The surveys, which ran online from March 24 to October 22, 2026, collected voluntary, self-reported data on unexplained neurological, cognitive, and sensory symptoms often associated with Havana Syndrome. Women represented 61.5% of respondents in the Havana Syndrome Civilian Survey, 52.7% in the Neurological Symptoms Survey, and 60.0% in the Decision-Making Survey. The findings matter because they highlight a potential gender disparity in who reports these debilitating symptoms, which could shape how healthcare providers and researchers approach diagnosis and care.
The Neurological Symptoms Survey produced striking results: 91.1% of respondents reported sudden ear or head ringing, buzzing, or pressure; 78.0% said they received no explanation for their symptoms; 78.8% sought medical care; and 91.9% reported disruptions to work, sleep, or daily activities. These figures underscore the substantial burden on individuals who experience these unexplained symptoms, many of whom struggle to get answers from the medical system. DEWA is calling for expanded baseline neurological and cognitive testing, increased medical awareness of Havana Syndrome-type symptoms, and appropriate medical evaluations before premature diagnostic conclusions. The organization conducts these surveys annually to support research and advocate for improved healthcare resources.
The implications extend beyond the individuals affected. With most respondents reporting disruptions to work and daily life, and many unable to obtain an explanation, there is a clear need for better medical recognition and support. DEWA, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in 2021, focuses on advocacy for directed-energy technology safety, civilian incident documentation, victim assistance, research, public education, and legislative advocacy. Through its Civilian Count initiative, DEWA collects voluntary reports to support medical awareness, research discussions, and improved access to healthcare resources. Readers interested in learning more can visit www.CivilianCount.org.
The 2026 surveys were hosted on Zoho Surveys and promoted through social media, yielding 354 total submissions across the three surveys. DEWA acknowledges that the surveys used limited, self-selected samples and that percentages are based on respondents answering each relevant question. The findings reflect the experiences of participating respondents, and reported symptoms and their causes were not independently medically verified. Despite these limitations, the consistent overrepresentation of women across all three surveys signals a pattern that warrants further investigation, particularly as awareness of Havana Syndrome-type symptoms grows and more civilians seek recognition for their experiences.
