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Erdogan EG, Kaya SS. The disaster literacy level of society, opinions on disaster management services, and related factors: A case from a province in Turkiye. Public Health Nurs 2024. [PMID: 39044650 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate individuals' disaster literacy levels, their thoughts on disaster management services, and related factors. METHOD The descriptive research was conducted with a total of 480 individuals between the ages of 18 and 60 living in a province in the first-degree earthquake zone in Turkey. The data were collected with the Disaster Literacy Scale and the Disaster Management Services Evaluation Form. RESULTS In this study, it was found that more than half of the participants had inadequate/moderate disaster literacy. The total disaster literacy score and all subscale scores were found to be higher in individuals who had an earthquake kit at home, had an emergency plan, and had received disaster-related training (p < .05). The majority of the participants found the services provided for disaster management inadequate or very inadequate. CONCLUSIONS In this study, it has been found that a significant portion of the society lacks the desired level of disaster literacy, and the services provided for disasters are deemed insufficient therefore, there is a need for multi-disciplinary national prevention programs to enhance disaster literacy and preparedness in the community, as well as urgently supporting policies to improve disaster-related services. Additionally, due to their comprehensive knowledge of the general structure of society, public health nurses need to play an active role in disaster preparedness and increasing disaster literacy levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eylul Gülnur Erdogan
- Department of Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bilecik Seyh Edebali University, Bilecik, Turkiye
| | - Senay Sermet Kaya
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nevsehir Hacı Bektas Veli University, Nevsehir, Turkiye
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Lücker P, Henning E, Kästner A, Hoffmann W. Inactive nurses' willingness to return to active nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:1043-1057. [PMID: 37775954 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate factors that influence the willingness of inactive nurses to return to nursing in a crisis situation and to identify aspects that need to be considered with regard to a possible deployment. DESIGN A deductive and inductive qualitative content analysis of semi-structured focus group interviews. METHODS Semi-structured focus group interviews with inactive or marginally employed nurses, nurses who have been inactive for some time and nursing home managers in October and November 2021. The participating inactive nurses had declared their willingness for a deployment during the COVID-19 pandemic or not. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Communication was seen as essential by the participants for an informed decision for or against a temporary return to nursing and to potential or actual deployments. To make them feel safe, inactive nurses need to know what to expect and what is expected of them, for example, regarding required training and responsibilities. Considering their current employment status, some flexibility in terms of deployment conditions is needed. A remaining attachment to care can trigger a sense of duty. Knowledge of (regular) working conditions in nursing can lead to both a desire to support former colleagues and a refusal to be exposed to these conditions again. CONCLUSION Past working experiences and the current employment situation play a major role in the willingness of inactive nurses to return to nursing in a crisis situation. Unbureaucratic arrangements must be provided for those who are willing to return. SUMMARY STATEMENT What already is known - In crisis situations, not every inactive nurse is willing or able to return to nursing and therefore, the 'silent reserve' may not be as large as suspected. What this paper adds - Inactive nurses need to know what to expect and what is expected of them for their decision regarding a return to active patient care during a crisis situation. Implications for practice/policy - Inactive nurses need to be informed and should be offered free training and refresher courses to ensure patient safety. IMPACT This research shows that the group of inactive nurses are not a silent workforce which can be activated anytime. Those who are able and willing to return to direct patient care in crisis situations need the best possible support - during and between crises. REPORTING METHOD This study adhered to COREQ guidelines. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION The involvement of patients or members of the public did not apply for the study, as the aim was to gain insight into the motivations and attitudes of the group of inactive nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Lücker
- Department Epidemiology of Health Care and Community Health, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Esther Henning
- Department Methods of Community Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anika Kästner
- Department Epidemiology of Health Care and Community Health, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hoffmann
- Department Epidemiology of Health Care and Community Health, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Cao W, Zhao S, Sun S. Mortality risks associated with flood events. BMJ 2023; 383:2101. [PMID: 37793692 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.p2101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wangnan Cao
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shi Zhao
- Centre for Health Systems and Policy Research, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shengzhi Sun
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Measurement of Disaster Literacy in Turkish Society: Disaster Literacy Scale (DLS) Design and Development Process. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2022; 17:e211. [PMID: 35903856 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2022.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to design and develop a self-report Disaster Literacy Scale (DLS) tool that could evaluate the knowledge and skills of an individual specific to Turkish society. METHOD Item development, expert opinions, language control, pilot study and field testing processes were monitored in the measurement tool based on a conceptual model and recognition. RESULTS 23 items were taken out since their common variance values (>0,508, >0.500, >0.500, >0.400, respectively) and factor load relationship (>0.46, >0.50, >0.50, >0.50 and >0.55, respectively) in the mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery phases of the Exploratory Factor Analysis were insufficient. The Cronbach Alpha value of the remaining 61 items in the Disaster Literary Scale is 0.954 and between 0.83-0.88 in lower dimensions. DLS scoring was standardized between 0-50 points. CONCLUSIONS The objectives, scopes, limitations and steps of the design and development process of the Disaster Literacy Scale were given in detail and made understandable for other societies. The Disaster Literacy Scale was developed as a self-report scale that could evaluate the knowledge and skills of Turkish society in disasters. The Disaster Literacy Scale is, therefore, expected to be accepted in more countries to improve the understanding of disaster literacy in different societies.
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Peterson LJ, Rouse HJ, Slater C, Ayala J. State Policies Concerning Disaster Preparedness for Home- and Community-Based Service Providers. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1520-1527. [PMID: 35232311 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221075619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Older adults are among those most vulnerable to harm in disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires. Nursing homes and other Medicare providers are subject to federal requirements to develop detailed disaster plans. However, millions of older adults receive care at home from non-Medicare providers who are under federal disaster preparedness rules that are less prescriptive than Medicare rules and subject to state interpretation. This study assessed the disaster preparedness policies for Older Americans Act-funded home- and community-based programs in 10 states with high numbers of older adults and experience with disasters. We found considerable variation by state. The results raise questions about the protection provided to vulnerable individuals who receive care at home in some states. However, the policies of some other states indicate an awareness that government has a significant role in protecting older adults exposed to disasters and that disaster preparedness is a component of aging in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay J Peterson
- School of Aging Studies, Florida Policy Exchange Center on Aging, 7831University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Hillary J Rouse
- School of Aging Studies, Florida Policy Exchange Center on Aging, 7831University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Christian Slater
- School of Aging Studies, Florida Policy Exchange Center on Aging, 7831University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Joey Ayala
- School of Aging Studies, Florida Policy Exchange Center on Aging, 7831University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Lack of Alignment in Emergency Response by Systems and the Public: A Dutch Disaster Health Literacy Case Study. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2020; 16:25-28. [PMID: 32958081 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2020.226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Disaster health literacy is vital for emergency medicine and public health preparedness. Conversely, how health and safety information is communicated has a significant impact on disaster health literacy. A lack of alignment between the disaster response and the public's reaction was apparent during a Dutch chemical incident. This case study aims to provide insights into why that misalignment occurred. METHODS The case study used readily available Twitter data. The tweets represented both the public and the authorities. The tweets were coded, thematically categorised, analysed, and synthesised to generate an explanatory framework describing the obstacles experienced during the emergency. RESULTS The analysis identified four areas of concern with regards to the lack of alignment between the authorities and the public: the alert of the chemical incident, the inadequate communication, the problematic disaster management, and the insufficient disaster health literacy. CONCLUSION The case study showed shortcomings in communication and a lack of alignment in the emergency response of the authorities as well as the public's disaster health literacy. Immediate action points were apparent, and a more profound evaluation is recommended to avoid further escalation of an emergency in the future. Trust needs to be built before the next incident strikes.
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Decision Support Framework for Deployment of Emergency Medical Teams After Earthquakes. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2020; 15:727-734. [PMID: 32641187 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2020.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effectiveness of Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) is strongly related to their time of arrival, and usually only few teams arrive within 24-48 h postdisaster. The decision to deploy and the scale of deployment rely heavily on context and nature of the event and consequently a rapid assessment of needs/gaps is critical to an appropriate and customized response. METHODS In this study, we describe a desk-based study that provides: (1) knowledge about the medical needs that can be anticipated according to the phases of the disaster that is not rich in literature; and (2) a decision support framework for the deployment of EMTs to earthquakes that combines the results of a literature research and a Delphi study involving the opinion of 12 experts in the field. RESULTS The resulting framework is a tool that will help better mapping the configuration to the needs on the ground at the time the team becomes operational in the field and will assist those responsible for deploying and/or accepting EMTs in making informed decisions on deployment after an earthquake. CONCLUSIONS With additional research the framework approach may be adapted to other types of international relief such as to deploy a Search And Rescue (SAR) team.
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Disaster Literacy and Public Health: A Systematic Review and Integration of Definitions and Models. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2020; 15:518-527. [PMID: 32618555 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2020.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to develop an integrated definition and a conceptual model covering the dimensions of disaster literacy. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted to identify the definitions and conceptual frameworks of disaster literacy. The content analysis of definitions and conceptual frameworks were conducted to identify the central dimensions of disaster literacy and to develop an integrated model. RESULTS In this study, 8 disaster literacy definitions and 4 conceptual model studies related to disasters were found. In line with these studies, a comprehensive definition of disaster literacy was presented. In addition, based on content analysis, a 16-matrix integrative conceptual model of the mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery dimensions of disaster literacy, and the access, understanding, appraisal, and application areas of disaster information processing were developed. CONCLUSIONS In this study, a comprehensive definition and conceptual framework of disaster literacy were presented in an integrated model. By using this model, practices that are special to the phases of a disaster can be identified and supported in society. In addition, the model can contribute to empirical studies by providing the basis for the development of tools to measure disaster literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Harnett
- Medical Information Services Librarian at Borland Library, Health Science Center Libraries, University of Florida-Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Research on Disaster Literacy and Affecting Factors of College Students in Central China. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2020; 15:216-222. [PMID: 32284089 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2020.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Disaster literacy, which is a concept involved in moral quality, knowledge, and ability, impacts the disaster response. This study aimed to evaluate disaster education needs and to determine the affecting factors of disaster literacy among college students. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted through questionnaires. A total of 7200 college students from 10 colleges and universities in 5 provinces and cities in China were investigated. RESULTS Disaster education needs were urgently. For the participants, 79.43% stated that their families were not prepared for disaster prevention items, 96.36% suggested a campus emergency rescue team, and 88.64% obtained disaster knowledge through TV or Internet, and only 12.89% had offered relevant courses in their disciplines. The total scores of college students' disaster literacy were 87.85 ± 19.86, which was at a low level. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that age, major, grade, place of residence, parental education, mother's occupation, disaster experience, disaster training experience, and family disaster preparedness significantly affected college students' disaster literacy, especially grade, family disaster preparedness, and place of residence. CONCLUSIONS College students' disaster literacy education is urgently needed. Families, communities, colleges and the government should attach importance to disaster literacy education for college students.
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Flood Preparedness Literacy and Behaviors in Community Dwelling Older Adults. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2020; 15:452-457. [PMID: 32216857 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2020.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors related to flood preparedness literacy and the relationship between flood preparedness literacy and behaviors. METHODS A quantitative descriptive correlational study. The sample included 134 people residing in a central Thai province. Descriptive statistics, point-biserial correlation coefficient, and Spearman's rank correlation were used in the data analysis. RESULTS The results revealed that the factors related to flood preparedness literacy with a statistical significance were marital status (rpb = 0.207; P < 0.01), hearing ability (r = 0.197; P < 0.05), instrumental activities of daily living (r = 0.226; P < 0.01), and social support (r = 0.388; P < 0.01). Flood preparedness literacy was correlated with flood preparedness behaviors (r = 0.281; P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The factors related to flood preparedness literacy as mentioned above should be assessed to identify vulnerable groups for specific care provision. Furthermore, nurses should promote these factors to contribute to effective responses during flood disasters.
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Education and Disaster Vulnerability in Southeast Asia: Evidence and Policy Implications. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12041401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article summarizes the growing theoretical and empirical literature on the impact of education on disaster vulnerability with a focus on Southeast Asia. Education and learning can take place in different environments in more or less formalized ways. They can influence disaster vulnerability as the capacity to anticipate, cope with, resist, and recover from natural hazard in direct and indirect ways. Directly, through education and learning, individuals acquire knowledge, abilities, skills and perceptions that allow them to effectively prepare for and cope with the consequences of disaster shocks. Indirectly, education gives individuals and households access to material, informational and social resources, which can help reducing disaster vulnerability. We highlight central concepts and terminologies and discuss the different theoretical mechanisms through which education may have an impact. Supportive empirical evidence is presented and discussed with a particular focus on the role of inclusiveness in education and challenges in achieving universal access to high-quality education. Based on situation analysis and best practice cases, policy implications are derived that can inform the design and implementation of education and learning-based disaster risk reduction efforts in the region.
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Seifi B, Seyedin H, Ghanizadeh G. The Role of Academic Partnership in Disaster Risk Management: A Systematic Review. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2019; 13:1047-1058. [PMID: 31169115 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2018.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the community-based academic partnership roles in disaster risk management. METHODS The assessment of the documents was conducted by reviewing abstracts and full papers of the available studies, which provided considerable background and promoted knowledge in academic interventional roles in disaster risk management. The articles were searched with a wide range of key words related to the research topic. The studies included the research available between 2000 and September 2017 in the English language. The selection of articles was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. RESULTS Of 997 articles, we selected 12 full-text articles that met the criteria for the final review based on the study objective. The results show that, although universities can play multidirectional roles in disaster risk management phases, the development of the academic partnership potential and collaboration for disaster risk management and disaster risk reduction for stakeholders is necessary. CONCLUSION The universities' potential in providing sufficient disaster health literacy is not currently considered important enough in communities.Therefore, the proper context-bound models of development based on a community's skills and universities' potential should receive more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahar Seifi
- Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hesam Seyedin
- Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghader Ghanizadeh
- Environmental Health Engineering, Health Management Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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An Evaluation of the Literacy Demands of Online Natural Disaster Preparedness Materials for Families. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2019; 14:449-458. [PMID: 31385571 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2019.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Natural disasters are becoming increasingly common, but it is unclear whether families can comprehend and use available resources to prepare for such emergencies. The objective of this study was to evaluate the literacy demands of risk communication materials on natural disasters for US families with children. METHODS In January 2018, we assessed 386 online self-directed learning resources related to emergency preparedness for natural disasters using 5 literacy assessment tools. Assessment scores were compared by information source, audience type, and disaster type. RESULTS One-in-three websites represented government institutions, and 3/4 were written for a general audience. Nearly 1-in-5 websites did not specify a disaster type. Assessment scores suggest a mismatch between the general population's literacy levels and literacy demands of materials in the areas of readability, complexity, suitability, web usability, and overall audience appropriateness. Materials required more years of education beyond the grade level recommended by prominent health organizations. Resources for caregivers of children generally and children with special health care needs possessed lower literacy demands than materials overall, for most assessment tools. CONCLUSIONS Risk communication and public health agencies could better align the literacy demands of emergency preparedness materials with the literacy capabilities of the general public.
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Westcott R, Ronan K, Bambrick H, Taylor M. Public health and natural hazards: new policies and preparedness initiatives developed from an Australian bushfire case study. Aust N Z J Public Health 2019; 43:395-400. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Westcott
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of MedicineWestern Sydney University Sydney New South Wales
- Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre Melbourne Victoria
| | - Kevin Ronan
- Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre Melbourne Victoria
- School of Health, Medical and Applied SciencesCentral Queensland University Rockhampton Queensland
| | - Hilary Bambrick
- School of Public Health and Social WorkQueensland University of Technology Brisbane Queensland
| | - Melanie Taylor
- Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre Melbourne Victoria
- Department of PsychologyMacquarie University Sydney New South Wales
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Gibson A, Walsh J, Brown LM. A perfect storm: Challenges encountered by family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease during natural disasters. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2018; 61:775-789. [PMID: 29781774 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2018.1474158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Since Hurricane Katrina there has been a movement across the U.S. to examine best practice for disaster response within the aging population. However, little is known about the experience of natural disasters from the perspective of family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD). In this exploratory, qualitative study, family caregivers (n=27) were interviewed about their experience with the historic 2015 South Carolina flood. By using thematic analysis, themes were identified to better understand what unique challenges caregivers of person with ADRD experienced. While many caregivers stated they had experienced a natural disaster previously, none had ever done so in their current caregiving role. The caregiving role affected their ability to prepare for the storm and influenced their decision-making regarding evacuation and utilization of recovery resources. Thus, caregivers were confronted by a "perfect storm" of circumstances and uncertainty. Family caregivers need to have actionable emergency plans for disasters that are specific to their role as caregivers of persons with ADRD. Study implications also suggest the role social work professionals can have in educating, advocating, evaluating, and coordinating support to assist caregivers of persons with ADRD as a potentially vulnerable and at-risk population during all phases of disaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Gibson
- a College of Social Work , University of Kentucky , Lexington , KY , USA
| | - Jessica Walsh
- b Clinical Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , CA , USA
| | - Lisa M Brown
- b Clinical Psychology , Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , CA , USA
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Chan EY, Yue J, Lee P, Wang SS. Socio-demographic Predictors for Urban Community Disaster Health Risk Perception and Household Based Preparedness in a Chinese Urban City. PLOS CURRENTS 2016; 8. [PMID: 28856059 PMCID: PMC5569964 DOI: 10.1371/currents.dis.287fb7fee6f9f4521af441a236c2d519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: There is limited evidence on urban Asian communities' disaster risk perceptions and household level preparedness. Hong Kong is characterized by high population density, and is susceptible to large-scale natural disasters and health crises such as typhoons, fires and infectious disease outbreaks. This research paper investigates the rates and predictors of urban community disaster risk perception, awareness and preparedness, at individual and household levels. Methods: A randomized cross-sectional, population-based telephone survey study was conducted among the Cantonese-speaking population aged over 15 years in Hong Kong. Descriptive statistics were reported. A stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the independent associations between risk perceptions, socioeconomic factors, household characteristics, and personal background. Findings: Final study sample comprised of 1002 respondents with a 63% response rate. The majority of respondents (82.3%) did not perceive Hong Kong as a disaster-susceptible city. Half (54.6%) reported beliefs that the local population had lower disaster awareness than other global cities. Infectious disease outbreak (72.4%), typhoon (12.6%), and fire (7.1%) were ranked as the most-likely-to-occur population-based disasters. Although over 77% believed that basic first aid training was necessary for improving individual disaster preparedness, only a quarter (26.1%) of respondents reported participation in training. Conclusion: Despite Hong Kong’s high level of risk, general public perceptions of disaster in Hong Kong were low, and little preparedness has occurred at the individual or household levels. This report has potential to inform the development of related policies and risk communication strategies in Asian urban cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Yy Chan
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China; Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; FXB Centre of Health and Human Rights, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Janice Yue
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
| | - Poyi Lee
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
| | - Susan Shuxin Wang
- Collaborating Centre of Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC)The Chinese University of Hong Kong
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