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Reifels L, Dückers MLA. Disaster Mental Health Risk Reduction: Appraising Disaster Mental Health Research as If Risk Mattered. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5923. [PMID: 37297527 PMCID: PMC10252811 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20115923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The globally increasing frequency, intensity, and complexity of extreme climatic events and disasters poses significant challenges for the future health and wellbeing of affected populations around the world [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Lennart Reifels
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Michel L. A. Dückers
- Nivel—Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, 3513 CR Utrecht, The Netherlands;
- ARQ Centre of Expertise for the Impact of Disasters and Crises, 1112 XE Diemen, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, 9712 CP Groningen, The Netherlands
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Ueda Y, Hayashi F, Ohira T, Maeda M, Yasumura S, Miura I, Itagaki S, Shimabukuro M, Nakano H, Kamiya K, Yabe H. A Six-Year Prospective Study on Problem Drinking among Evacuees of the Great East Japan Earthquake: The Fukushima Health Management Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:319. [PMID: 36612640 PMCID: PMC9819237 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Evacuees of the Great East Japan Earthquake have experienced adverse, long-term physical and psychological effects, including problem drinking. This study examined the risk and recovery factors for problem drinking among evacuees between fiscal years (FY) 2012 and 2017 using data on residents in the evacuation area from the Mental Health and Lifestyle Survey. With the FY 2012 survey as a baseline, a survey comprising 15,976 men and women was conducted in the evacuation area from FY 2013 to FY 2017, examining the risk and protective factors for problem drinking. Particularly, the Cutting down, Annoyed by criticism, Guilty feeling, and Eye-opener (CAGE) questionnaire was used to evaluate problem drinking. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to identify the risk and recovery factors of problem drinking. The findings indicated that the male gender, insufficient sleep, job change, trauma symptoms, mental illness, family financial issues, and heavy drinking (≥4 drinks per day) were significant risk factors for the incidence of problem drinking among the evacuees. Furthermore, a high blood pressure diagnosis could exacerbate problem drinking among men, while younger age and a diabetes mellitus diagnosis could increase problem drinking among women. Trauma symptoms and heavy drinking inhibited recovery from problem drinking after the disaster. Understanding these factors can shape effective long-term intervention strategies to physically and psychologically support evacuees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Ueda
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Fumikazu Hayashi
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Epidemiology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ohira
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Epidemiology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Masaharu Maeda
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Disaster Psychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Seiji Yasumura
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Itaru Miura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Itagaki
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Michio Shimabukuro
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hironori Nakano
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kenji Kamiya
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hirooki Yabe
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
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Orui M. Suicide and Suicide Prevention Activities Following the Great East Japan Earthquake 2011: A Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191710906. [PMID: 36078620 PMCID: PMC9518051 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE), numerous studies have been conducted, but no comprehensive review study has been carried out. Thus, this literature review aimed to examine how the GEJE might affect suicide and suicidal behaviors from a long-term perspective. METHODS For the literature review, a search of electronic databases was carried out to find articles written in English and in Japanese that were related to suicide and its risk factors, as well as suicide prevention activities following the GEJE. Thirty-two articles were then selected for the review. RESULTS There were several findings, as follows: (1) gender differences in suicide rates in the affected area: nationwide, the suicide rates in men showed a delayed increase, whereas suicide rates in women increased temporarily immediately after the GEJE; (2) the suicide rates increased again in the recovery phase; (3) the background of the suicides was linked to both disaster-related experiences, and indirect reasons pertaining to the GEJE; and (4) intensive intervention combined with a high-risk and community-focused approach could prevent suicides following the disaster. CONCLUSIONS Although further accumulation of knowledge about suicide and suicide prevention is essential, these findings can contribute to response, recovery, and preparedness in relation to future disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Orui
- Sendai City Mental Health and Welfare Center, Sendai 980-0845, Japan; ; Tel.: +81-24-547-1180
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
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Moriyama N, Nakayama C, Watanabe K, Kuga T, Yasumura S. Feasibility study of an intervention program to enhance self-confidence of kindergarten teachers who deal with radiation-related health concerns from parents with young children. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:25. [PMID: 35115043 PMCID: PMC8812038 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-00993-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Following the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station accident in March 2011, radiation anxiety was high among residents in affected areas. Enhancing radiation-related health literacy is effective in reducing radiation anxiety. This feasibility study aimed to examine a novel intervention program to enhance the self-confidence of kindergarten teachers who deal with radiation-related health concerns from parents in order to determine the feasibility of conducting a future randomized controlled trial. Methods Teachers and administrative staff of two private kindergartens in Fukushima City and members of Media Doctor Japan (a research group for enhancing the quality of health news reporting in Japan) were recruited for study participation. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group participated in the intervention program, comprised of lectures, group discussions, and presentations. The control group received the same written materials used in the intervention program. The primary outcome of this study was feasibility, assessed via four questions concerning program acceptability and described without quantitative analysis. Secondary outcomes were self-confidence concerning parent consultation (1 question, 4-point Likert scale), radiation-related health knowledge (5 question quiz, 1 point for each correct answer, score: 0–5), and health literacy (assessment developed by Ishilawa, et al., score: 1–5) assessed numerically before and after the intervention. Means and standard deviations of outcomes before and after the intervention and their changes in both groups were reported with groups of participants (kindergartens and the Media Doctor Research Japan) reported separately. No quantitative analyses were performed for secondary outcomes. Results Five and six kindergarten workers and seven and seven Media Doctor Japan members participated in the intervention and control groups, respectively. Reported acceptability was generally positive, and only one participant gave a negative response regarding program usefulness. Improved self-confidence was found in kindergarten employee participants. Radiation-related health knowledge was higher after the intervention in both kindergarten teachers and Media Doctor Japan members. The amount of change was higher in the intervention group than in the control group. Conclusions The intervention program enhanced self-confidence in kindergarten employees. The feasibility of the intervention program for a larger randomized controlled trial was ascertained. Time to conduct lectures and group discussions should be increased to further enhance health literacy. Trial registrations UMIN000042527 [University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Center] registered on November 25, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuaki Moriyama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 1, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan.
| | - Chihiro Nakayama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 1, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Watanabe
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomomi Kuga
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 1, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Seiji Yasumura
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, 1, Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
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Askenazy F, Fernandez A, Altan L, Battista M, Dückers M, Gindt M, Nachon O, Ivankovic A, Porcar-Becker I, Prieto N, Robert P, Stene LE, Thummler S, Manera V. Remote training as a common tool for the different professionals involved in the acute phase after terror attacks across Europe: Perspectives from an expert panel. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:915929. [PMID: 36081462 PMCID: PMC9445156 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.915929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The acute response after a terror attack may have a crucial impact on the physical and psychological wellbeing of the victims. Preparedness of the professionals involved in the acute response is a key element to ensure effective interventions, and can be improved through trainings. Today in Europe there is a recognized lack of inter-professional and international trainings, which are important, among others, to respond to the needs and the rights of victims affected by a terrorist attack in another country than their home country. In this paper we report the perspectives of an expert panel composed by different categories of professionals on the possible role of interprofessional trainings provided remotely. The experts discussed the pertinence of remote trainings for professionals involved in the acute response of a terror attack, and highlighted their Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT analysis). We concluded that, while remote trainings cannot replace in-person trainings, they may be useful to share knowledge about the role and the organization of the different categories of professionals, thus potentially improving response coordination, and to easily share good practices across professionals and countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Askenazy
- Cognition Behaviour Technology (CoBTeK) Lab, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
| | - Arnaud Fernandez
- Cognition Behaviour Technology (CoBTeK) Lab, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
| | | | - Michèle Battista
- University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
| | - Michel Dückers
- ARQ Centre of Expertise for the Impact of Disasters and Crises, Diemen, Netherlands.,Nivel-Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Morgane Gindt
- Cognition Behaviour Technology (CoBTeK) Lab, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
| | - Ophélie Nachon
- Cognition Behaviour Technology (CoBTeK) Lab, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
| | | | - Ingeborg Porcar-Becker
- Unit for Trauma, Crisis and Conflicts at the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Nathalie Prieto
- Cellule d'Urgence Médico-Psychologique, Centre Régional du Psychotraumatisme, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Lyon, France
| | - Philippe Robert
- Cognition Behaviour Technology (CoBTeK) Lab, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,Association Innovation Alzheimer, Nice, France
| | - Lise Eilin Stene
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies (NKVTS), Oslo, Norway
| | - Susanne Thummler
- Cognition Behaviour Technology (CoBTeK) Lab, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
| | - Valeria Manera
- Cognition Behaviour Technology (CoBTeK) Lab, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,Association Innovation Alzheimer, Nice, France
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Orui M, Nakayama C, Moriyama N, Tsubokura M, Watanabe K, Nakayama T, Sugita M, Yasumura S. Those Who Have Continuing Radiation Anxiety Show High Psychological Distress in Cases of High Post-Traumatic Stress: The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182212048. [PMID: 34831804 PMCID: PMC8623122 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Background: this cross-sectional study aimed to clarify the associations among media utilization, lifestyles, and the strong radiation anxiety that has persisted 9 years after the 2011 nuclear accident. Moreover, the relationships among psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, and strong radiation anxiety were examined. Methods: for the multivariate regression analysis, the independent variables were radiation anxiety at the time of the accident and the current status, categorized as “continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety”. Media utilization (local, national, internet, and public broadcasts, and public relations information) and lifestyle variables (sleep quality, regular exercise, and drinking habits) were set as the dependent variables. Moreover, the psychological distress of residents with continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety was examined by an analysis of covariance stratified by post-traumatic stress. Result: there was no significant association between lifestyle variables and media utilization, except for local media (OR: 0.435, 95% CI: 0.21–0.90). Conversely, significantly high psychological distress was confirmed among residents with continuing/emerging radiation anxiety. The K6 score, representing psychological distress, for those with higher post-traumatic stress was 12.63; for those with lower post-traumatic stress, it was 5.13 (p = 0.004). Conclusions: residents with continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety showed high psychological distress, which has been strengthened by higher post-traumatic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Orui
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
- Sendai City Mental Health and Welfare Center, Sendai 980-0845, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-24-547-1180
| | - Chihiro Nakayama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
| | - Nobuaki Moriyama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
| | - Masaharu Tsubokura
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan;
| | - Kiyotaka Watanabe
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8606, Japan;
| | - Takeo Nakayama
- Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan;
| | | | - Seiji Yasumura
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
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Practical Report of Disaster-Related Mental Health Interventions Following the Great East Japan Earthquake during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Potential for Suicide Prevention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910424. [PMID: 34639724 PMCID: PMC8507691 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: This practical report aims to publicize the ongoing disaster-related mental health interventions following the Great East Japan Earthquake during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Disaster-related mental health interventions consisted of: (1) screening high-risk evacuees with high psychological distress (Kessler 6 score ≥ 13) or binge drinking; and (2) visiting selected high-risk individuals and providing them counseling through outreach in evacuee housing. These activity records were compiled from existing material in the Sendai City Office; therefore, no new interviews or questionnaire surveys were conducted. Results: During the COVID-19 pandemic, we introduced telephone counseling and shortened the time of support as a result of the restrictions. Counselors addressed issues of “loneliness” or “isolation” among evacuees, who had little connection with society due to the pandemic. Moreover, the procedure for obtaining COVID-19 special financial aid was explained to evacuees in financial difficulty. During this period, the suicide rates in the affected area did not increase significantly as compared to the national average. Conclusions: Our report may be instructive in terms of preventing suicide during the pandemic using high-risk approaches and counselors trained in disaster-related mental health interventions.
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The ongoing activities of livelihood support counselors following nuclear disaster under the COVID-19 restrictions: A preliminary survey. PUBLIC HEALTH IN PRACTICE 2021; 2:100107. [PMID: 34514448 PMCID: PMC8417458 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2021.100107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This preliminary study aims to understand the state of support provided in the evacuation areas of the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, during the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) restriction. Methods A self-administered survey was conducted with 18 livelihood support counselors from two Social Welfare Councils in November 2020. We investigated the number of consultations since the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of telephonic consultation as opposed to in-person consultations through visits to counselees’ homes. Results Counselors have been continued offering supports to their counselees even under the COVID-19 restrictions, in fact, fifty percent of counselors have increased the consultations. Although some counselors had a sense of unease or concern about telephonic consultation due to the inability to see their non-verbal expressions, there were some advantages of telephonic consultation, in that the counselors were able to have longer sessions and listen more attentively to severe issues. Conclusions Notably, livelihood support counselors in this study have increased the number of consultations while utilization telephonic consultations, despite the adverse conditions created by the COVID-19 restriction. Moreover, certain advantages of telephonic consultation instead of in-person consultation have been identified. It may be an effective support method avoiding in-person contacts, that also considers infection-prevention measures. Counselors coped with evacuees’ mental health issues following the Fukushima nuclear accident. Counselors continued to support evacuees even during the COVID-19 restrictions. Counselors provided telephonic consultations as an infection-prevention measure. Some counselors felt uneasy about telephonic instead of in-person consultation. Telephonic consultation had more advantages, such as longer sessions and attentive listening.
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Kuroda Y, Orui M, Hori A. Trends in Suicide Mortality in 10 Years around the Great East Japan Earthquake: Analysis of Evacuation and Non-Evacuation Areas in Fukushima Prefecture. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116005. [PMID: 34205006 PMCID: PMC8199884 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This study analyzed the suicide mortality rate in 12 municipalities in Fukushima Prefecture designated as evacuation areas following the 2011 nuclear disaster. Changes in suicide rates were examined using an exponential smoothing time series model. In the evacuation areas, the suicide rate of men increased immediately after the disaster and then decreased from 47.8 to 23.1 per 100,000 during about 1½ years after the disaster. However, with the lifting of the evacuation order, it again exceeded that of non-evacuation areas and continued to do so for the next 3 years. On the other hand, the suicide rate in women in the evacuation areas increased later than that in men. These results indicate the need for continuous support following the lifting of the evacuation order. In addition, it is necessary to enhance social networks, which continue to confer protection, because of the isolation of the elderly as highlighted in our previous study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiro Kuroda
- Research Department, Fukushima Prefectural Centre for Environmental Creation, Fukushima 963-7700, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-247-61-6140
| | - Masatsugu Orui
- Sendai City Mental Health and Welfare Center, Sendai 980-0845, Japan;
| | - Arinobu Hori
- Department of Psychiatry, Hori Mental Clinic, Fukushima 979-2335, Japan;
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Orui M, Nakayama C, Moriyama N, Tsubokura M, Watanabe K, Nakayama T, Sugita M, Yasumura S. Current Psychological Distress, Post-traumatic Stress, and Radiation Health Anxiety Remain High for Those Who Have Rebuilt Permanent Homes Following the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249532. [PMID: 33352668 PMCID: PMC7766246 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011 produced psychological reactions among evacuees. Despite the harsh situation, subsequently, there has been gradual progress in reconstruction, with more than half of the evacuees returning after the evacuation. Our hypothesis is that evacuee mental health will now be better due to new stable living conditions. This study aims to clarify the statuses of psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, and radiation health anxiety among evacuees who have rebuilt permanent homes after evacuation. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 1600 residents was conducted in 2020. As primary outcomes, the survey measured psychological distress (Kessler 6), post-traumatic stress (post-traumatic stress four-item checklist), and radiation health anxiety. The data are compared for residents who have rebuilt permanent home and those who did not evacuate. Results: In the co-variant analysis, the statuses of psychological distress (p < 0.001), post-traumatic stress (p < 0.001), and radiation health anxiety (p < 0.001) are found to still be high, with significant differences when compared to those who did not evacuate. These results are still at an equivalent level for the continuing evacuation. Conclusion: Our findings may indicate a necessity for continuing disaster-related mental health activities even though the living conditions have improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Orui
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
- Sendai City Mental Health and Welfare Center, Sendai 980-0845, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-24-547-1180
| | - Chihiro Nakayama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
| | - Nobuaki Moriyama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
| | - Masaharu Tsubokura
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan;
| | - Kiyotaka Watanabe
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8606, Japan;
| | - Takeo Nakayama
- Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan;
| | | | - Seiji Yasumura
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
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Moriyama N, Nakayama C, Orui M, Kuroda Y, Iwasa H, Horiuchi T, Nakayama T, Sugita M, Yasumura S. Associated factors related to participation in general health checkup and survey of the effect of low-dose radiation exposure on health of residents of Fukushima Prefecture after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident. Prev Med Rep 2020; 20:101214. [PMID: 33083209 PMCID: PMC7553339 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident caused radioactive contamination of the surrounding area. In addition to annual health checkups, a survey of the effects of low-dose radiation exposure on health among Fukushima Prefecture residents after the accident has been conducted. Despite health literacy (HL) being recognized as essential to health, its association with participation in these checkups and the survey remains unknown. We aimed to describe the HL status of the Fukushima Prefecture residents and to verify the hypothesis that HL is associated with participation in both checkup and survey. In a cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was sent to 2000 randomly sampled Fukushima Prefecture residents; data from 770 individuals were analyzed. Communicative and critical HL were measured using a 5-point scale. Factors associated with participation were examined using logistic regression. The survey's valid response rate was 38.5%. The average HL score was 3.11 ± 0.81. HL was not associated with checkup or survey participation. Checkup participation was negatively associated with radiation anxiety (odds ratio 0.93, 95% confidence interval 0.86-0.99, p = 0.03). The HL of Fukushima Prefecture residents after the accident was relatively lower than that of the Japanese general population, which may be attributed to difference in educational background. The complexities involved in understanding the effects of radiation on the health of residents could explain why no association between HL and participation in a health checkup and survey was observed. Future studies with a longitudinal design should clarify causality between anxiety and checkup participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuaki Moriyama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Chihiro Nakayama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Orui
- Sendai City Mental Health and Welfare Center, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yujiro Kuroda
- Center for Integrated Science and Humanities, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hajime Iwasa
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Teruko Horiuchi
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Takeo Nakayama
- Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Seiji Yasumura
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
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Orita M, Taira Y, Matsunaga H, Maeda M, Takamura N. Quality of Life and Intention to Return among Former Residents of Tomioka Town, Fukushima Prefecture 9 Years after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Accident. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186625. [PMID: 32932913 PMCID: PMC7559810 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the association between health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) and intent to return home among former residents of Tomioka Town, Fukushima Prefecture 9 years after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident to support the recovery of the community after the accident. We conducted a questionnaire survey asking residents about their intention to return to their original home, risk perception for radiation exposure, HR-QOL using the HR-QOL Short Form 8 (SF-8), and sense of coherence using the Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC-13). Among the 1029 residents, a total of 138 (13%) had already returned to Tomioka (group 1), 223 (22%) were undecided (group 2), and 668 (65%) had decided not to return (group 3). Group 2 had poorer HR-QOL than groups 1 and 3, especially physical function, body pain, general health, social functioning, and mental health. The ratio of residents with a better sense of coherence was significantly higher in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3. Our present study indicated poorer HR-QOL among residents who were undecided about returning home. It is necessary to provide a model for a multidisciplinary approach for the public during the recovery phase of a nuclear accident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makiko Orita
- Department of Global Health, Medicine and Welfare, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 8528523, Japan; (Y.T.); (H.M.); (N.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Yasuyuki Taira
- Department of Global Health, Medicine and Welfare, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 8528523, Japan; (Y.T.); (H.M.); (N.T.)
| | - Hitomi Matsunaga
- Department of Global Health, Medicine and Welfare, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 8528523, Japan; (Y.T.); (H.M.); (N.T.)
| | - Masaharu Maeda
- Department of Disaster Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1247, Japan;
| | - Noboru Takamura
- Department of Global Health, Medicine and Welfare, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 8528523, Japan; (Y.T.); (H.M.); (N.T.)
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