Civilian Surveys Show More Women Report Havana Syndrome-Like Symptoms

Direct Energy Weapons Agency, Inc. (DEWA) has completed its first annual Civilian Count initiative, a series of three national online surveys conducted from March 24 to October 22, 2026. The surveys focused on Havana Syndrome-like symptoms, neurological complaints, and decision-making. Women represented the majority of respondents in all three surveys: 61.5% in the Havana Syndrome Civilian Survey, 52.7% in the Neurological Symptoms Survey, and 60.0% in the Decision-Making Survey. The findings, released by the Marshfield, Massachusetts-based nonprofit, highlight a pattern of unexplained symptoms that could have significant implications for Texas employers, healthcare providers, and workers.

Key results from the Neurological Symptoms Survey show that 91.1% of respondents reported sudden ear or head ringing, buzzing, or pressure. Additionally, 78.0% received no explanation for their symptoms, 78.8% sought medical care, and 91.9% reported disruptions to work, sleep, or daily activities. These figures suggest that a substantial number of individuals are experiencing symptoms that interfere with their productivity and well-being, yet often lack a clear diagnosis or medical explanation.

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. For Texas businesses, the findings underscore the importance of understanding and accommodating employees who may be affected by such symptoms, as work disruptions can impact performance and retention. The state's large healthcare and technology sectors may also face growing demand for specialized evaluations and care.

Through its Civilian Count initiative, DEWA collects voluntary reports of unexplained neurological, cognitive, sensory, and related symptoms to support medical awareness, research discussions, and improved access to healthcare resources. More information about the initiative is available at www.CivilianCount.org. The 2026 surveys collected voluntary, self-reported responses through online participation via Zoho Surveys, including outreach through social media. A total of 354 survey submissions were recorded across the three surveys. The surveys used limited, self-selected samples, and percentages are based on respondents answering each relevant question. Findings reflect the experiences of participating respondents. Reported symptoms and their causes were not independently medically verified; they are based on what each individual reported they are experiencing.

While the surveys are not scientifically representative, they signal a need for greater attention to unexplained neurological symptoms among civilians. For Texas, a state with a diverse economy and a growing population, the implications could extend to workforce health, insurance costs, and the availability of diagnostic services. DEWA's advocacy for baseline testing and medical awareness may prompt discussions among policymakers and industry leaders about how to support affected individuals and ensure appropriate medical evaluations. As the Civilian Count continues annually, it may provide valuable data to inform research and healthcare planning, ultimately helping to address a complex and often misunderstood health concern.