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Cobham VE, McDermott B. 'School-based screen-and-treat': An effective blueprint for expediating access to care in children experiencing PTSD following disasters. Br J Clin Psychol 2024. [PMID: 38766924 DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES While 5%-10% of children exposed to natural disasters develop PTSD, few children access support. This paper reports on the proactive 'screen-and-treat' approach deployed following devastating floods in Queensland, Australia, in 2011 and presents results for children in the Lockyer Valley (the most impacted community). DESIGN Open treatment study (2011-2012) within a government-funded post-disaster service response. METHODS One hundred and fifty children (7-12 years) completed pencil-and-paper screening (PTSD, anxiety and depression) at school. Eighty children endorsing either clinical levels of PTSD, or moderate levels of PTSD and clinical levels of either anxiety or depression, and their parents, completed a structured diagnostic interview. Forty-eight children were offered a free trauma-focused CBT intervention. The parents of 19 children accepted this offer. Most clinicians were clinical psychology trainees from local universities. All measures were repeated at post-treatment, 6- and 12-month follow-up. Note: The term 'parents' is used to refer to the wide variety of people serving as a child's primary caregiver. RESULTS Pre-treatment, all children met diagnostic criteria for full (N = 17) or sub-clinical PTSD. By post-treatment, 10.5% met criteria for PTSD, with 0% meeting criteria at the 12-month follow-up. The incidence of anxiety and depressive disorders also reduced significantly. There were no differences in outcomes for children seen by trainees compared to experienced clinicians. CONCLUSIONS A school-based screen-and-treat approach offers potential as a means of identifying and treating children following natural disaster exposure. However, engagement of families at the outset, and when offering intervention was challenging. Postgraduate trainees represent an effective potential workforce in a post-disaster environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa E Cobham
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brett McDermott
- Centre for Mental Health Service Innovation, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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Tsubota-Utsugi M, Sasaki R, Suzuki R, Tanno K, Kuno J, Shimoda H, Sakata K. Changes in physical activity during the year after the Great East Japan Earthquake and future frailty in older survivors. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024. [PMID: 38685861 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.14882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
AIM This study examines whether changes in physical activity (PA) during the first year after the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (2011-2012) contributed to preventing the onset of future frailty among older survivors of the disaster. METHODS This study tracked 2561 physically active Japanese survivors aged ≥ 65 years (43.6% men; mean age 72.9 years) who had completed self-administered questionnaires in 2011 and 2012. PA levels for participants were classified into four categories based on ≥23 and <23 metabolic equivalent hours/week in 2011 and 2012: "consistently low," "decreasing," "increasing," and "consistently high." Frailty was defined as a Kihon Checklist score ≥ 5, which is used in the long-term care insurance system in Japan. Hazard ratios were calculated for the onset of frailty using a Cox proportional hazards model that fitted the proportional sub-distribution hazards regression model with weights for competing risks of death. RESULTS From 2012 to 2018, 283 men and 490 women developed frailty. Men with consistently high or increasing PA during the first year after the disaster had a lower risk of frailty. Furthermore, even increasing PA by walking for just 30 min/day prevented future frailty in men; however, this association between a change in PA and the decreased risk of frailty was not observed in women. CONCLUSIONS Older men who remained physically active or resumed PA at an early stage and at a low intensity, even after being physically inactive owing to the disaster, were able to prevent future frailty. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••-••.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Tsubota-Utsugi
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Iwate, Japan
| | - Ryohei Sasaki
- Department of Human Sciences, Center for Liberal Arts and Sciences, Iwate Medical University, Iwate, Japan
| | - Ruriko Suzuki
- Faculty of Nursing, Graduate School of Nursing Sciences, Iwate University of Health and Medical Sciences, Iwate, Japan
| | - Kozo Tanno
- Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Iwate, Japan
| | - Junji Kuno
- Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Iwate, Japan
| | - Haruki Shimoda
- Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Iwate, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Sakata
- Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, Iwate, Japan
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Luk M, Longman J. Young people's experiences of the Northern Rivers 2017 flood and its effects on their mental health. Aust J Rural Health 2024; 32:343-353. [PMID: 38456227 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.13095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore young people's (YP) experiences of catastrophic flooding in the Northern Rivers area of northern NSW in 2017 and its effect on their mental health. DESIGN Content analysis of free-text survey responses (written responses to open questions, rather than selecting a response option). SETTING Northern Rivers NSW. PARTICIPANTS YP aged 16-25 years who were Northern Rivers residents at the time of the 2017 flood. RESULTS YP found their flood experience to be novel and challenging. They expressed worry, distress, anxiety, and worsened pre-existing mental health issues as a result of the flood. YP reported a number of primary stressors (inadequate preparedness, warning and support during the flood) and secondary stressors (loss/damage of property and possessions, financial strain and disruptions to daily life) which potentially contributed to poor mental health. Some YP reported positive outcomes from their flood experience, notably increased community connectedness and personal resilience. However, they also expressed concern for the future, particularly potential reoccurrence of extreme floods as well as climate change. YP conveyed a desire for better community involvement to improve preparedness for future floods and a clear motivation to take action on climate change. CONCLUSION The flood was a challenging experience for YP which was commonly described as negatively affecting their mental health. Understanding what YP view as significant events or issues arising from their personal flood experience may help target support mechanisms and services to maintain their mental. More focus on community-based initiatives to improve disaster preparedness can support mental health in YP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Luk
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, The University Centre for Rural Health, Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jo Longman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, The University Centre for Rural Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Sato H, Sudo N, Takeda T, Shimada I, Tsuboyama-Kasaoka N. Revision of "Nutritional Reference Values for Feeding at Evacuation Shelters" and Model Menus: A Qualitative Study. J Am Nutr Assoc 2024; 43:157-166. [PMID: 37579054 DOI: 10.1080/27697061.2023.2241129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2011, the Japanese government issued nutritional reference values for energy; protein; vitamins B1, B2, and C; and salt to deal with poor meal quality in evacuation shelters. Because they were not widely used owing to their impracticality, the authors had examined the values according to the experience-based opinions of public health dietitians. Furthermore, we developed a usage tool containing a model menu that meets these values. This study aimed to confirm the usability of these revised values and model menus and collect ideas for improvement. METHODS We conducted 8 semi-structured group interviews with 12 dietitians, 9 disaster management officers, and 2 public health nurses in local governments supposed to have been affected by a large-scale disaster. RESULTS New reference values were highly evaluated by most participants. Interviewees said that model menus were helpful for evacuees or disaster officers who are unfamiliar with nutrition because they show combinations of food items that meet the reference values instead of the amounts of energy and nutrients. To improve their understanding, it was suggested that food items be categorized by staples, main dishes, and side dishes, encouraging them to complete these three components of a balanced diet. Because it was difficult to meet all the reference values in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, it was suggested that the time-dependent priority of each nutrient and model menus that supply the nutrient should be shown by disaster phases along with the assumed availability of utility for cooking in each phase. CONCLUSION The new reference values were feasible to meet during emergencies. Although model menus were also appreciated, further improvements were necessary for better understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroka Sato
- Department of Food and Nutritional Science, Division of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Humanities and Sciences, Ochanomizu University, Bunkyo City, Japan
| | - Noriko Sudo
- Natural Science Division, Faculty of Core Research, Ochanomizu University, Bunkyo City, Japan
| | - Tamaki Takeda
- Department of Food and Nutritional Science, Division of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Humanities and Sciences, Ochanomizu University, Bunkyo City, Japan
| | - Ikuko Shimada
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition, University of Kochi, Kochi City, Japan
| | - Nobuyo Tsuboyama-Kasaoka
- Section of Global Disaster Nutrition, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Settsu City, Japan
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Wada Y, Watanabe J, Yamamoto N, Kubota T, Kamijo K, Hirano D, Takahashi H, Fujiwara H. Association between earthquakes and perinatal outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38234161 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence for the association between earthquakes and adverse perinatal outcomes is limited. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the association between earthquakes and perinatal outcomes including preterm birth and low birth weight. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched studies using MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Platform Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov on February 9, 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA We included before-and-after studies that evaluated the associations between earthquakes and perinatal outcomes in women living in affected areas. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two independent reviewers extracted data. We calculated the pooled odds ratio (OR) with the random-effects model. We analyzed outcomes in subgroups of Asians and others. We evaluated the certainty of evidence with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. MAIN RESULTS We included 2 607 405 women in 13 studies. Earthquakes may not increase preterm birth (nine studies, 1 761 760 participants: OR 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98-1.24, low certainty of evidence) or low birth weight (seven studies, 1 753 891 participants: OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.94-1.28, low certainty of evidence). Subgroup analyses showed that earthquakes may be associated with an increase of preterm birth among populations in Asia (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.07-1.95), but this was not evident in others (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.83-1.05). CONCLUSIONS Perinatal outcomes might not change after earthquakes. Further research on the association between earthquakes and perinatal outcomes, combined with an assessment of the characteristics of the region, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimitsu Wada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, Japan
| | - Jun Watanabe
- Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Gastroenterological, General and Transplant Surgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Norio Yamamoto
- Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, Japan
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takafumi Kubota
- Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kyosuke Kamijo
- Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, Japan
- Department of Gynecology, Nagano Municipal Hospital, Nagano, Japan
| | - Daishi Hirano
- Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hironori Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Fujiwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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Rizzi D, Ciuffo G, El Gour F, Erradi J, Barone L, Ionio C. Perspectives on early insights: pediatric cancer caregiving amidst natural calamities - A call for future preparedness. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1319850. [PMID: 38264253 PMCID: PMC10803513 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1319850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural disasters cause immense damage and disruption to the environment, human lives, and property, posing a threat to safety and well-being. These disasters annually affect individuals and communities, severely impacting mental health. Research indicates a significant link between catastrophic events and an increased risk of mental disorders, including anxiety, depression, substance use, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals with chronic conditions, like cancer patients, are particularly vulnerable post-disaster due to disrupted healthcare services. The recent earthquake in Morocco highlighted the urgent need for continued care, especially for vulnerable populations living in poverty. Soleterre Foundation's interventions focus on supporting young cancer patients and their families, emphasizing psychological support following the earthquake. Effective disaster response needs coordinated efforts, clear roles, communication, and standardized healthcare procedures, especially for vulnerable groups like cancer patients. Education programs for patients and clinicians are vital for disaster preparedness. Communication challenges and lack of medical history further emphasize the need for well-defined disaster preparedness plans and continued care guidelines for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Rizzi
- Fondazione Soleterre Strategie di Pace ONLUS, Milan, Lombardy, Italy
- Psychology of Trauma Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Lombardy, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Lombardy, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Ciuffo
- Psychology of Trauma Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Lombardy, Italy
| | - Firdaous El Gour
- Fondazione Soleterre Strategie di Pace ONLUS, Milan, Lombardy, Italy
| | - Jinane Erradi
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Mohammed VI, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Lavinia Barone
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Lombardy, Italy
| | - Chiara Ionio
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
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Okuzono SS, Slopen N, Shiba K, Yazawa A, Kondo K, Kawachi I. Do Adverse Childhood Experiences Modify the Association Between Disaster-Related Trauma and Cognitive Disability? Am J Epidemiol 2024; 193:36-46. [PMID: 37442811 PMCID: PMC10773476 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwad158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying subpopulations that are particularly vulnerable to long-term adverse health consequences of disaster-related trauma is needed. We examined whether adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) potentiate the association between disaster-related trauma and subsequent cognitive disability among older adult disaster survivors. Data were from a prospective cohort study of older adults who survived the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. The baseline survey pre-dated the disaster by 7 months. We included participants who completed follow-up surveys (2013 and 2016) and did not have a cognitive disability before the disaster (n = 602). Disaster-related traumas (i.e., home loss, loss of friends or pets) and ACEs were retrospectively assessed in 2013. Cognitive disability levels in 2016 were objectively assessed. After adjusting for pre-disaster characteristics using a machine learning-based estimation approach, home loss (0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.09, 0.28) was, on average, associated with greater cognitive disability. Among individuals with ACEs, home loss was associated with even higher cognitive disability levels (0.64, 95% CI: 0.24, 1.03). Losses of friends (0.18, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.32) and pets (0.13, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.25) were associated with higher cognitive disability levels only among those with ACEs. Our findings suggest that individuals with a history of ACEs may be particularly vulnerable to adverse health consequences related to disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakurako S Okuzono
- Correspondence to Sakurako S. Okuzono, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115 (e-mail: )
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Macleod E, Heffernan T, Greenwood LM, Walker I, Lane J, Stanley SK, Evans O, Calear AL, Cruwys T, Christensen BK, Kurz T, Lancsar E, Reynolds J, Rodney Harris R, Sutherland S. Predictors of individual mental health and psychological resilience after Australia's 2019-2020 bushfires. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2024; 58:58-69. [PMID: 37264605 PMCID: PMC10756019 DOI: 10.1177/00048674231175618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
AIMS We assessed the mental health effects of Australia's 2019-2020 bushfires 12-18 months later, predicting psychological distress and positive psychological outcomes from bushfire exposure and a range of demographic variables, and seeking insights to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience planning for different profiles of people. METHODS We surveyed 3083 bushfire-affected and non-affected Australian residents about their experiences of bushfire, COVID-19, psychological distress (depression, anxiety, stress, post-traumatic stress disorder) and positive psychological outcomes (resilient coping, wellbeing). RESULTS We found high rates of distress across all participants, exacerbated by severity of bushfire exposure. For people who were bushfire-affected, being older, having less financial stress, and having no or fewer pre-existing mental disorders predicted both lower distress and higher positive outcomes. Being male or having less income loss also predicted positive outcomes. Severity of exposure, higher education and higher COVID-19-related stressors predicted both higher distress and higher positive outcomes. Pre-existing physical health diagnosis and previous bushfire experience did not significantly predict distress or positive outcomes. RECOMMENDATIONS To promote disaster resilience, we recommend investment in mental health, particularly for younger adults and for those in rural and remote areas. We also recommend investment in mechanisms to protect against financial distress and the development of a broader definition of bushfire-related impacts than is currently used to capture brushfires' far-reaching effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Macleod
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Timothy Heffernan
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- School of Built Environment, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lisa-Marie Greenwood
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Iain Walker
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Melbourne Centre for Behaviour Change, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jo Lane
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Samantha K Stanley
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Olivia Evans
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Alison L Calear
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Tegan Cruwys
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Bruce K Christensen
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Tim Kurz
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Emily Lancsar
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Julia Reynolds
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Rachael Rodney Harris
- Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Stewart Sutherland
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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Safajou F, Nahidi F, Ahmadi F. Reproductive health challenges during a flood: A qualitative study. Nurs Open 2024; 11:e2044. [PMID: 38268287 PMCID: PMC10697115 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.2044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM The study aimed to investigate women's reproductive health challenges during floods. DESIGN This study is qualitative, specifically employing content analysis with an inductive approach. METHODS Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews between July and December 2021. The study involved 13 women affected by floods in Golestan province, Aq Qala Township, and also included seven healthcare providers and officials. Before the interviews, informed and written consent was obtained from all participants. The sampling process continued until data saturation was achieved. RESULTS The analysis of the participants' experiences in this study revealed four main categories of requirements, which were as follows: Maternal and Child Health with four subcategories, Essentials of Women's Health Care with two subcategories, Problems of Relationships with two subcategories, and Aggression and Physical Violence with two subcategories. In conclusion, during floods, women encounter numerous challenges in preserving their reproductive health. Recognizing and understanding these challenges can be instrumental in effectively planning measures to prevent or address them during disasters like floods. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE IMPACT Every disaster has unique conditions and challenges. The health requirements of individuals impacted by floods differ from those affected by other natural disasters. By identifying the specific reproductive health needs of women affected by floods, midwives and other healthcare providers can enhance their planning efforts, enabling them to better address and fulfil these needs during such critical situations. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Thirteen women were affected by floods, and seven healthcare providers and officials were interviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Safajou
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and MidwiferyShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Fatemeh Nahidi
- Midwifery and Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Midwifery & Reproductive Health, School of Nursing & MidwiferyShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Fazlollah Ahmadi
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
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Armitage RC. Conflict and natural disaster: the impacts on medical education in Ukraine and Türkiye. Postgrad Med J 2023; 100:63-64. [PMID: 37302080 DOI: 10.1093/postmj/qgad040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In addition to causing enormous and enduring harms to the health of populations, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the recent earthquakes in southeast Türkiye have greatly damaged the institutions of medical education at work in these countries. This paper explores these harms and encourages medical educationalists in unaffected countries to reflect on the virtues of their own educational institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard C Armitage
- Academic Unit of Population and Lifespan Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG5 1PB, United Kingdom
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Soqia J, Ghareeb A, Hadakie R, Alsamara K, Forbes D, Jawich K, Al-Homsi A, Kakaje A. The mental health impact of the 2023 earthquakes on the Syrian population: cross-sectional study. BJPsych Open 2023; 10:e1. [PMID: 38037419 PMCID: PMC10755557 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2023.598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural disasters have a significant impact on the mental health of affected populations. The February 2023 earthquakes in Syria and Turkey caused widespread devastation. AIMS To explore the mental health impact of the earthquakes in Syria on the population across areas differentially damaged by the disaster. METHOD This cross-sectional study conducted in Syria included 1406 adults recruited via social media platforms 1 month after the February 2023 earthquakes. Demographic information, earthquake exposure questions, the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5: for probable post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9: for probable depression) and the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7: for probable anxiety) were included to compare outcomes across areas severely, moderately and slightly damaged by the earthquakes. RESULTS Probable PTSD and GAD rates were higher in the severely (57.9 and 57.3% respectively) and moderately damaged regions (55.4 and 56.3% respectively) than in the slightly damaged regions (44.6 and 48.3% respectively) (PTSD: P < 0.001, GAD: P = 0.005). More participants in severely damaged regions (60.6%) reported symptoms of depression compared with moderately (53.1%) and slightly damaged (50.8%) regions (P = 0.003). Poorer mental health outcomes were associated with being female, single, younger, having a damaged or destroyed house, seeing something tragic in person and hearing tragic stories. Seeing something tragic on social media was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the higher prevalence of probable mental disorders in areas with more severe earthquake damage, with over 50% of the population reporting probable PTSD, depression or anxiety. The study also suggests a significant cumulative effect of these earthquakes on an already trauma- and disaster-affected population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rana Hadakie
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damascus University, Syria
| | - Kinda Alsamara
- Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - David Forbes
- Phoenix Australia – Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kenda Jawich
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damascus University, Syria
| | | | - Ameer Kakaje
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Syria; and University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
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Futterman ID, Grace H, Weingarten S, Borjian A, Clare CA. Maternal anxiety, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after natural disasters: a systematic review. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2023; 36:2199345. [PMID: 37031972 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2023.2199345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure the prevalence of maternal anxiety, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in those exposed to natural disasters. METHODS A literature search of the PubMed database and www.clinicaltrials.gov from January 1990 through June 2020 was conducted. A PRISMA review of the available literature regarding the incidence and prevalence of maternal anxiety, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following natural disasters was performed. A natural disaster was defined as one of the following: pandemic, hurricane, earthquake and post-political conflict/displacement of people. Studies were selected that were population-based, prospective or retrospective. Case reports and case series were not used. The primary outcome was the prevalence of maternal anxiety, depression and PTSD in the post-disaster setting. Two independent extractors (I.F. & H.G.) assessed study quality using an adapted version of the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment tool. Given the small number of studies that met inclusion criteria, all 22 studies were included, regardless of rating. Data were extracted and aggregate rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD were calculated to provide synthesized rates of maternal mental health conditions among participants. RESULTS Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 8357 pregnant or birthing persons in the antepartum and postpartum periods were studied. The prevalence of post-pandemic anxiety, depression and PTSD were calculated to be 48.2%, 27.3%, and 22.9%. Post-earthquake depression and PTSD rates were 38.8% and 22.4%. The prevalence of post-hurricane anxiety, depression and PTSD were 17.4%, 22.5%, and 8.2%. The rates of post-political conflict anxiety, depression and PTSD were 48.8%, 31.6% and 18.5%. CONCLUSION Given the high rates of anxiety, depression and PTSD among pregnant and birthing persons living through the challenges of natural disasters, obstetrician-gynecologists must be able to recognize this group of patients, and provide a greater degree of psychosocial support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itamar D Futterman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Holly Grace
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, NY, USA
| | - Sarah Weingarten
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Alborz Borjian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Camille A Clare
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, NY, USA
- New York City Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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Jones B, Herbert C, Finnerty S, Kennedy B, Lykins A, Martin JM, McManus P, Raubenheimer D, Shaw M, McGreevy PD. In Situ Provisioning Wildlife with Food, Water, or Shelter after Bushfires: Using a One Welfare Framework to Guide Responses. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3518. [PMID: 38003136 PMCID: PMC10668798 DOI: 10.3390/ani13223518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Australia's 2019-2020 bushfires had a devastating impact on animals, humans, and ecosystems. They also demonstrated the lack of evidence or guidance for wildlife provisioning in response to severe fire events when volunteers and wildlife organisations rose to respond. In addition, the unprecedented scale and intensity of the fires and an absence of institutional support for wildlife provisioning meant that well-intentioned interventions were largely uncoordinated and lacked clear short-term, mid-term, and long-term objectives. Fundamentally, a lack of consensus was revealed on whether any such interventions are advisable. Given the strong evidence indicating that future bushfire seasons will become longer and more intense in Australia and elsewhere, the welfare and survival of millions of wild animals are at risk every year. Understanding the impacts of supplementary resource interventions and contributing to the development of best practice information is crucial to inform the response to the next major fire event. Here, we contextualize the arguments for and against provisioning within a 'One Welfare' framework that recognizes that animal welfare, biodiversity, and the environment are intertwined with human welfare and community resilience. We propose that the One Welfare approach can facilitate appropriate consideration of the extant scientific and lay literature; local legislation; views of stakeholders; emerging data; and modelling from historic fire events. As a further step, we see merit in engaging with wildlife provisioners and the broader conservation community to build an evidence base for future wildlife provisioning activities. From an informed position, we can encourage beneficial interventions and reduce the risk of negative outcomes. Finally, we propose controlled experiments (e.g., using hazard reduction burns), ongoing data collection using emergent technology, and longitudinal analysis to address shifting research priorities as the climate changes. We conclude that the ordered collection of the necessary evidence relevant to each of the three stakeholder groups in the One Welfare framework has the greatest potential to support an informed policy platform on wildlife provisioning across Australia that is feasible, legal, and sustainable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bidda Jones
- School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Australian Alliance for Animals, 16 Goodhope Street, Paddington, NSW 2021, Australia
| | - Catherine Herbert
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Samantha Finnerty
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Brooke Kennedy
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2353, Australia
| | - Amy Lykins
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2353, Australia
| | - John M. Martin
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Phil McManus
- School of Geosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - David Raubenheimer
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michelle Shaw
- Welfare, Conservation and Science, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia
| | - Paul D. McGreevy
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2353, Australia
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Zaigham M, Bryce-Alberti M, Campos LN, Forbes C, Naus AE, Pigeolet M, Hill SK, Sana H, Ehsan AN, Samad L, Uribe-Leitz T, McClain CD, Juran S. Protecting pregnant women from climate disasters: Strategies in the aftermath of Pakistan's devastating flood. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 163:348-351. [PMID: 37272595 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
SynopsisSudden‐onset climate events can have a significant impact on maternal health care systems, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries where resources are limited. We outline strategic policies that can help anticipate and plan for such disasters and help minimize negative maternal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehreen Zaigham
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Institution of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mayte Bryce-Alberti
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Letícia Nunes Campos
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Faculty of Medical Science, Universidade de Pernambuco, Recife, Prince Edward Island, Brazil
| | - Callum Forbes
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Equity in Global Surgery, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Abbie E Naus
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Manon Pigeolet
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sarah K Hill
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hamaiyal Sana
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Bolan Medical Complex Hospital, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Anam N Ehsan
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lubna Samad
- Center for Essential Surgical and Acute Care, IRD Global, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Tarsicio Uribe-Leitz
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Epidemiology, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Craig D McClain
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sabrina Juran
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Ramezankhani A, Sabouri M. Assessing the method of providing health services to at-risk groups during natural events (earthquake): A systematic review. J Educ Health Promot 2023; 12:367. [PMID: 38144016 PMCID: PMC10743922 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_1624_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Disasters create a large amount of human needs. Health services in natural disasters are considered the main factor of human survival. The present study was conducted to determine the method of providing health services to at-risk groups during natural events such as earthquakes in 2022. This systematic review was conducted based on English and Persian studies published in Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, and PubMed databases, as well as internal databases including SID, Magiran in the fields of title, abstract, and keywords such as natural disaster, earthquake, health services, mental health services, psychosocial support system, nursing services, relief, mental and physical health, and its MeSH equivalents with all of the possible combinations. Finally, 11 studies were identified as eligible among the 48 ones found in the initial search. To examine the quality of studies, the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and STROBE evaluation checklists were used. Based on the results, 1834 studies were found after screening and investigating the inclusion criteria, among which 237 and 1549 were excluded due to repetition and unrelated titles, respectively. Then, 48 studies remained after reviewing their abstracts, resulting in including 11 in English (N = 10) and Persian (N = 1) from different countries during 2003-2020. The reviewed studies included semi-experimental and experimental (N = 5) and descriptive ones (N = 6). A large number of studies (N = 21) were related to providing services in the event of multiple disasters and were excluded. About 92% (N = 10) of the studies were conducted in English and more than 90% were related to providing services after the earthquake including providing mental health services (N = 6), the cognitive behavioral intervention (N = 3), rapid assessment of needs (N = 1), as well as mental health services and disaster education (N = 1). The vast majority of studies demonstrated improvement in psychosocial functioning, facilitation of children's normal development, and successful adaptive functioning with an intervention. Based on the results, mental health training affects more when local people are trained to assess the victims based on mental and psychological status. Earthquake is regarded as an opportunity that allows professionals to discover and introduce intervention combination modules to provide mental health services while helping victims who need emotional support and comfort. However, various types of services should be provided, especially in earthquake-prone areas before and after the earthquake in order to achieve a life with fewer complications and a higher quality considering the amount of trouble created by such disaster as a special condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ramezankhani
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sabouri
- Health Education and Health Promotion, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Lawton R, Frankenberg E, Seeman T, Crimmins E, Sumantri C, Thomas D. Exposure to the Indian Ocean Tsunami shapes the HPA-axis resulting in HPA "burnout" 14 years later. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2306497120. [PMID: 37844215 PMCID: PMC10622908 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2306497120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite significant research on the effects of stress on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, questions remain regarding long-term impacts of large-scale stressors. Leveraging data on exposure to an unanticipated major natural disaster, the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, we provide causal evidence of its imprint on hair cortisol levels fourteen years later. Data are drawn from the Study of the Tsunami Aftermath and Recovery, a population-representative longitudinal study of tsunami survivors who were living along the coast of Aceh, Indonesia, when the tsunami hit. Annual rounds of data, collected before, the year after and 2 y after the disaster provide detailed information about tsunami exposures and self-reported symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Hair samples collected 14 y after the tsunami from a sample of adult participants provide measures of cortisol levels, integrated over several months. Hair cortisol concentrations are substantially and significantly lower among females who were living, at the time of the tsunami, in communities directly damaged by the tsunami, in comparison with similar females living in other, nearby communities. Differences among males are small and not significant. Cortisol concentrations are lowest among those females living in damaged communities who reported elevated post-traumatic stress symptoms persistently for two years after the tsunami, indicating that the negative effects of exposure were largest for them. Low cortisol is also associated with contemporaneous reports of poor self-rated general and psychosocial health. Taken together, the evidence points to dysregulation in the HPA axis and "burnout" among these females fourteen years after exposure to the disaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Lawton
- Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA02115
| | | | - Teresa Seeman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Eileen Crimmins
- Andrus Gerontology Center, Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA90089
| | | | - Duncan Thomas
- Department of Economics, Duke University, Durham, NC27708
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17
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Guardiola Dávila G, López-Fontanet JJ, Ramos F, Acevedo Monsanto MA. Examining Global Crises: Extracting Insights From the COVID-19 Pandemic and Natural Disasters to Develop a Robust Emergency Diabetic Retinopathy Strategy for Puerto Rico. Cureus 2023; 15:e47070. [PMID: 37846348 PMCID: PMC10577004 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In this critical analysis, we investigate the profound impact of natural disasters and pandemics on the care and adherence to treating diabetic retinopathy, a severe complication of diabetes requiring continuous monitoring and treatment to prevent vision loss. Our study also sheds light on the social and economic context of Puerto Rico, emphasizing recent emergency events that have exacerbated existing public health challenges. Through a comprehensive review of relevant literature from PubMed, Google Scholar, and the George Washington University Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library database, we identified 31 pertinent articles out of 45 evaluated, focusing on the effects of these crises on healthcare delivery, diabetic retinopathy screening, and treatment. The evidence strongly indicates that during such emergencies, barriers to healthcare escalate, leading to significant treatment delays and a reduction in diabetic retinopathy screening and diagnosis, ultimately resulting in deteriorated visual outcomes. Thus, our review underscores the urgent need for the development of effective emergency plans tailored specifically to diabetic retinopathy, particularly in Puerto Rico, where diabetes prevalence and its complications are notably higher. Such plans should not only incorporate established emergency measures but also harness emerging technological advances in the field of ophthalmology to ensure optimal preparedness for future pandemics and natural disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José J López-Fontanet
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PRI
| | - Fabiola Ramos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PRI
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18
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Gaffney KK, Medcalf S, Duysen E, Wichman C. Rural and Agricultural Natural Disaster Stress and Recovery: A Comparison. J Agromedicine 2023; 28:797-808. [PMID: 37394921 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2023.2230987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
This study used a novel survey instrument to evaluate the hypothesis that U.S. agricultural producers have significantly different stress and recovery experiences following acute-onset natural disaster compared to their non-agricultural counterparts. Participants were recruited through local organizations and targeted email and social media in communities in Arkansas and Nebraska that had experienced violent tornadoes in 2014 and/or severe flooding in 2019. The survey instrument incorporated the Brief Resilience Scale, the Revised Impact of Event Scale referencing two time points, the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory-Short Form, and original questions. Demographic, exposure, stress, and recovery measures were analyzed in SAS with Chi-square tests, t-tests, Wilcoxon tests, and multiple linear regression modeling to test for differences between agricultural and non-agricultural groups in resilience, event exposure, stress symptoms in the week after the event, stress symptoms in the month before the survey, a calculated recovery ratio, and posttraumatic growth. Analysis sample (N = 159) contained 20.8% agricultural occupation, 71.1% female, and 49.1% over age 55. No significant differences were found between agricultural and non-agricultural participants when comparing resilience, stress, or recovery ratio measures. Unadjusted posttraumatic growth score was significantly lower in the agriculture group (P = .02), and an occupation group by sex interaction was significantly associated with posttraumatic growth score (P = .02) when controlled for number of initial posttraumatic stress symptoms in the adjusted model, with agricultural women showing lower growth. Overall, there was no evidence of significant difference in disaster stress and recovery between agricultural and rural, non-agricultural groups in this study. There was some evidence that women in agriculture may have lower levels of recovery. Data indicated that rural residents continue to experience posttraumatic-type symptoms up to 8 years beyond the acute-onset natural disaster events. Communities should include strategies to support mental and emotional health in their preparedness, response, and recovery plans with intentional inclusion of agricultural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin K Gaffney
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Sharon Medcalf
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Ellen Duysen
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Christopher Wichman
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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19
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Nieto-Quero A, Infantes-López MI, Zambrana-Infantes E, Chaves-Peña P, Gavito AL, Munoz-Martin J, Tabbai S, Márquez J, Rodríguez de Fonseca F, García-Fernández MI, Santín LJ, Pedraza C, Pérez-Martín M. Unveiling the Secrets of the Stressed Hippocampus: Exploring Proteomic Changes and Neurobiology of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Cells 2023; 12:2290. [PMID: 37759512 PMCID: PMC10527244 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Intense stress, especially traumatic stress, can trigger disabling responses and in some cases even lead to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is heterogeneous, accompanied by a range of distress symptoms and treatment-resistant disorders that may be associated with a number of other psychopathologies. PTSD is a very heterogeneous disorder with different subtypes that depend on, among other factors, the type of stressor that provokes it. However, the neurobiological mechanisms are poorly understood. The study of early stress responses may hint at the way PTSD develops and improve the understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms involved in its onset, opening the opportunity for possible preventive treatments. Proteomics is a promising strategy for characterizing these early mechanisms underlying the development of PTSD. The aim of the work was to understand how exposure to acute and intense stress using water immersion restraint stress (WIRS), which could be reminiscent of natural disaster, may induce several PTSD-associated symptoms and changes in the hippocampal proteomic profile. The results showed that exposure to WIRS induced behavioural symptoms and corticosterone levels reminiscent of PTSD. Moreover, the expression profiles of hippocampal proteins at 1 h and 24 h after stress were deregulated in favour of increased inflammation and reduced neuroplasticity, which was validated by histological studies and cytokine determination. Taken together, these results suggest that neuroplastic and inflammatory dysregulation may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Nieto-Quero
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del Comportamiento, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (A.N.-Q.); (E.Z.-I.); (S.T.); (L.J.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
| | - María Inmaculada Infantes-López
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (P.C.-P.); (J.M.-M.)
| | - Emma Zambrana-Infantes
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del Comportamiento, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (A.N.-Q.); (E.Z.-I.); (S.T.); (L.J.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
| | - Patricia Chaves-Peña
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (P.C.-P.); (J.M.-M.)
| | - Ana L. Gavito
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
| | - Jose Munoz-Martin
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (P.C.-P.); (J.M.-M.)
| | - Sara Tabbai
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del Comportamiento, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (A.N.-Q.); (E.Z.-I.); (S.T.); (L.J.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
| | - Javier Márquez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica, Canceromics Lab, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
| | - María Inmaculada García-Fernández
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Fisiología Humana, Histología Humana, Anatomía Patológica y Educación Física y Deportiva, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain
| | - Luis J. Santín
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del Comportamiento, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (A.N.-Q.); (E.Z.-I.); (S.T.); (L.J.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
| | - Carmen Pedraza
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del Comportamiento, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (A.N.-Q.); (E.Z.-I.); (S.T.); (L.J.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
| | - Margarita Pérez-Martín
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma Bionand, 29590 Malaga, Spain; (M.I.I.-L.); (A.L.G.); (J.M.); (F.R.d.F.); (M.I.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (P.C.-P.); (J.M.-M.)
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20
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Vroegindewey G, Gruszynski K, Handler D, Grudnik T, Balbo R, Dalla Villa P. World Organisation for Animal Health Members' Capacity to Deal With Animal Welfare Emergencies During Natural Disasters in Europe. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e506. [PMID: 37697681 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Little is known about individual European countries or regional capacity to respond to animal welfare emergencies during natural disasters; therefore, it is important to establish baseline information (eg, types of disasters, training) to enable more focused and data-driven actionable support for future disasters. METHODS A 55-question survey was distributed by an email link to the 53 World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) European Region Members plus 1 observer country. RESULTS Forty-nine countries (91%, n = 54) responded to the survey. Fifty-one percent (25/49) indicated they incorporated animal welfare into their national disaster regulatory framework, whereas 59% (29/49) indicated animal welfare was incorporated in the Veterinary Service National Disaster Management and Risk Reduction Plan. Thirty-nine percent (19/49) indicated they had "no" or "limited" legal authority to manage animal emergencies in natural disasters. Floods, forest fires, and snowstorm/extreme cold were the 3 most commonly reported disasters over the last 10 years with 79% (27/34) reporting Veterinary Services was involved in managing these disasters. CONCLUSION The survey results indicated a wide range in the capacity of WOAH European Member Countries to respond to animal welfare in natural disasters, highlighting the gaps and potential areas of improvement in this arena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Vroegindewey
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Karen Gruszynski
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Daniel Handler
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Tomasz Grudnik
- World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), WOAH Sub-Regional Representation in Brussels, Belgium
| | - Roberto Balbo
- World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), WOAH Sub-Regional Representation in Brussels, Belgium
- Agriculture Directorate Rural Affairs Department of the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Rights, Qormi, Malta
| | - Paolo Dalla Villa
- World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), WOAH Sub-Regional Representation in Brussels, Belgium
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale,"Teramo, Italy
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Kyozuka H, Ohhira T, Murata T, Yasuda S, Ishii K, Yasumura S, Fujimori K, Ohto H, Kamiya K. Eight-Year Trends in the Effect of the Great East Japan Earthquake on Obstetrics Outcomes: A Study from the Fukushima Health Management Survey. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1702. [PMID: 37629559 PMCID: PMC10455406 DOI: 10.3390/life13081702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Information regarding the longitudinal effects of natural/environmental disasters on obstetrics outcomes is limited. This study aimed to analyze the longitudinal changes in obstetrics outcomes over 8 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima power plant accident. We used data from the first 8 years of the Pregnancy and Birth Survey by the Fukushima prefectural government, launched in 2011. We compared data on obstetrics outcomes by year and divided Fukushima Prefecture into six districts based on administrative districts. Longitudinal changes in the occurrence of preterm birth before 37 gestational weeks, low birth weight, and anomalies in newborns were accessed using the Mantel-Haenszel test for trends in all six districts. Overall, 57,537 participants were included. In 8 years, maternal age, conception rate after sterility treatment, and cesarean section delivery incidence increased. Although significant differences were observed in preterm birth and low birth weight occurrence among districts, there was no significant trend in the occurrence of preterm birth, low birth weight, and anomalies in newborns in all six districts of Fukushima Prefecture. The Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima power plant accident were associated with increased cesarean section delivery incidence but had no significant adverse effects on obstetrics outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Kyozuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ohhira
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Shun Yasuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kayoko Ishii
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Seiji Yasumura
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Keiya Fujimori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ohto
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kenji Kamiya
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
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22
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Walika M, Moitinho De Almeida M, Castro Delgado R, Arcos González P. Outbreaks Following Natural Disasters: A Review of the Literature. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e444. [PMID: 37534398 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the relationship between infectious disease outbreaks and natural disasters is important in developing response and disaster risk reduction strategies. The aim of this study was to identify outbreaks associated with natural disasters during the past 20 y, and outline risk factors and mechanisms for postdisaster outbreaks. Review of the international disaster database (EM-DAT) and systematic review of the literature were conducted. The records of disaster events in EM-DAT during the past 20 y were screened. A literature search was carried out in the databases PubMed and Embase. Articles in English language published between 2000 and 2020 were searched. Data were extracted from articles and Narrative synthesis was used to summarize the findings. We found 108 events associated with epidemics, the majority being floods. We found 36 articles, most of them focused on outbreaks after floods. Risk factors and mechanisms that contributed to the outbreaks were mainly related to the consequences of disaster and its impact on the environment and living conditions of population. Infrastructure readiness and postdisaster measures play important roles in controlling the spread of epidemics after natural disasters. More evidence and research are required for better understanding of the association between natural disasters and infectious diseases outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miran Walika
- Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED) School of Public Health, Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
- Unit for Research in Emergency and Disasters. Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Spain
| | - Maria Moitinho De Almeida
- Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED) School of Public Health, Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Rafael Castro Delgado
- Health Service of the Principality of Asturias (SAMU-Asturias), Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (Research Group on Prehospital Care and Disasters, GIAPREDE), Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Oviedo University, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Pedro Arcos González
- Unit for Research in Emergency and Disasters. Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Spain
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23
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Romero AN, Dickinson E, Turcotte CM, Terhune CE. Skeletal age during hurricane impacts fluctuating asymmetry in Cayo Santiago rhesus macaques. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10425. [PMID: 37575591 PMCID: PMC10421717 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
As natural disasters become more frequent due to climate change, understanding the biological impact of these ecological catastrophes on wild populations becomes increasingly pertinent. Fluctuating asymmetry (FA), or random deviations from bilateral symmetry, is reflective of developmental instability and has long been positively associated with increases in environmental stress. This study investigates craniofacial FA in a population of free-ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) that has experienced multiple Category 3 hurricanes since the colony's inception on Cayo Santiago, including 275 individuals from ages 9 months to 31 years (F = 154; M = 121). Using geometric morphometrics to quantify FA and a linear mixed-effect model for analysis, we found that sex, age, and decade of birth did not influence the amount of FA in the individuals included in the study, but the developmental stage at which individuals experienced these catastrophic events greatly impacted the amount of FA exhibited (p = .001). Individuals that experienced these hurricanes during fetal life exhibited greater FA than any other post-natal developmental period. These results indicate that natural disasters can be associated with developmental disruption that results in long-term effects if occurring during the prenatal period, possibly due to increases in maternal stress-related hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashly N. Romero
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of ArkansasFayettevilleArkansasUSA
- Department of Basic Medical SciencesUniversity of Arizona College of Medicine – PhoenixPhoenixArizonaUSA
| | - Edwin Dickinson
- College of Osteopathic MedicineNew York Institute of TechnologyOld WestburyNew YorkUSA
| | - Cassandra M. Turcotte
- College of Osteopathic MedicineNew York Institute of TechnologyOld WestburyNew YorkUSA
| | - Claire E. Terhune
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of ArkansasFayettevilleArkansasUSA
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24
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Chowdhury A, Naz A, Sharma SB, Dasgupta R. Changes in Salinity, Mangrove Community Ecology, and Organic Blue Carbon Stock in Response to Cyclones at Indian Sundarbans. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1539. [PMID: 37511914 PMCID: PMC10381154 DOI: 10.3390/life13071539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change-induced frequent cyclones are pumping saline seawater into the Sundarbans. Fani, Amphan, Bulbul, and Yaas were the major cyclones that hit the region during 2019-2021. This study represents the changes in the soil parameters, mangrove biodiversity and zonation due to the cyclone surges in the Indian Sundarbans between 2017 and 2021. Increasing tidal water salinity (parts per thousand) trends in both pre-monsoon (21 to 33) and post-monsoon (14 to 19) seasons have been observed between 2017 and 2021. A 46% reduction in the soil organic blue carbon pool is observed due to a 31% increase in soil salinity. Soil organic blue carbon has been calculated by both wet digestion and the elemental analyzer method, which are linearly correlated with each other. A reduction in the available nitrogen (30%) and available phosphorous (33%) in the mangrove soil has also been observed. Salinity-sensitive mangroves, such as Xylocarpus granatum, Xylocarpus moluccensis, Rhizophora mucronata, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, and Bruguiera cylindrica, have seen local extinction in the sampled population. An increasing trend in relative density of salinity resilient, Avicennia marina, Suaeda maritima, Aegiceras corniculatum and a decreasing trend of true mangrove (Ceriops decandra) has been observed, in response to salinity rise in surface water as well as soil. As is evident from Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) and the Abundance/Frequency ratio (A/F), the mangrove zonation observed in response to tidal gradient has also changed, becoming more homogeneous with a dominance of A. marina. These findings indicate that cyclone, climate change-induced sea level rise can adversely impact Sustainable Development Goal 13 (climate action), by decreasing organic soil blue carbon sink and Sustainable Development Goal 14 (life below water), by local extinction of salinity sensitive mangroves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhiroop Chowdhury
- Jindal School of Environment and Sustainability, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat 131001, India
| | - Aliya Naz
- Jindal School of Liberal Arts and Humanities, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat 131001, India
| | - Seema B Sharma
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, KSKV Kachchh University, Mundra Road, Bhuj 370001, India
| | - Rajarshi Dasgupta
- School of Public Policy, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi 110016, India
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25
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Gomula A, Nowak-Szczepanska N, Chakraborty R, Malina RM, Ignasiak Z, Koziel S. Fine and gross motor skills in 7-10 years old Indian children exposed to a natural disaster during early development. Dev Psychobiol 2023; 65:e22401. [PMID: 37338247 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Fetal life and infancy are extremely sensitive to adverse environmental conditions. This study aimed to assess the effect of exposure to a natural disaster (cyclone Aila) in utero or during infancy on fine and gross motor functions in preadolescent Indian children. The study was conducted in West Bengal, India, and included approximately 700 children (7-10 years old) who were prenatally or postnatally exposed to cyclone Aila and a nonaffected group. Anthropometric measures included height, weight, and birthweight. Socioeconomic status was based on parental education, family size, and income. Motor functions were assessed using the short form of Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2). Statistical analyses included, for example, generalized linear models. There were no differences in motor functions relative to the timing of the exposure (trimester) during pregnancy. Compared to the controls, prenatal Aila exposure resulted in poorer performance in all BOT-2 subtests, except for fine motor precision, strength, and balance (the last in boys), while postnatal Aila exposure, compared to the controls, resulted in poorer performance in manual dexterity, bilateral coordination, balance (girls only), and speed and agility. Early life exposure to a natural disaster has long-term adverse effect on motor proficiency in children. By inference, the welfare of pregnant women and infants should be of particular concern for emergency and health services during an environmental cataclysm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Gomula
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Nowak-Szczepanska
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Raja Chakraborty
- Department of Anthropology and Tribal Studies, Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University, Purulia, India
| | - Robert M Malina
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Zofia Ignasiak
- Department of Biostructure, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Slawomir Koziel
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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26
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Miyama E, Morita T. Consumer Evaluation of Agricultural Products Produced in Areas Affected by Natural Disasters: A Case Study of Damaged Apples in Japan. Foods 2023; 12:2498. [PMID: 37444235 DOI: 10.3390/foods12132498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examines how consumers perceive agricultural products affected by natural disasters, using apples in Japan as a case study. Typhoons and other natural disasters frequently damage the surface of apples during the production season, causing significant harm to farmers' businesses, particularly when a large typhoon hits the production area. To maintain the sustainability of agricultural production, consumers need to purchase damaged crops at a certain price. To assess the effect of product attributes, such as appearance and price, and personal attributes of respondents, we conducted a choice-based conjoint analysis using a mixed logit model. The estimated results using the main effect and cross-section models show that consumers generally devalue apples when they have scratches. However, by using consumer co-operatives on a daily basis and disseminating simple information about the relationship between scratches and natural disasters, we could mitigate this devaluation tendency and thus contribute to sustainable agricultural production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eriko Miyama
- Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Tamaki Morita
- Faculty of Aviation Management, J. F. Oberlin University, 2-31-1 Ochiai, Tokyo 206-0033, Japan
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27
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Nomura Y, Ham J, Pehme PM, Wong W, Pritchett L, Rabinowitz S, Foldi NS, Hinton VJ, Wickramaratne PJ, Hurd YL. Association of maternal exposure to Superstorm Sandy and maternal cannabis use with development of psychopathology among offspring: the Stress in Pregnancy Study. BJPsych Open 2023; 9:e94. [PMID: 37231817 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2022.595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-life adverse experiences can elevate the magnitude of the risk of developmental psychopathology, but the potential synergistic effects of multiple factors have not been well studied. AIMS To determine whether prenatal exposures to maternal stress (Superstorm Sandy) and maternal cannabis use synergistically alter the risk of developmental psychopathology. METHOD The study included 163 children (53.4% girls), longitudinally tracked (ages 2-5 years) in relation to the effects of two early-life adverse exposures (Superstorm Sandy and maternal cannabis use). Offspring were grouped by exposure status (neither, only maternal cannabis use, only Superstorm Sandy or both). DSM-IV disorders for offspring were derived from structured clinical interviews; caregiver-reported ratings of family stress and social support were also assessed. RESULTS A total of 40.5% had been exposed to Superstorm Sandy and 24.5% to maternal cannabis use. Offspring exposed to both (n = 13, 8.0%), relative to those exposed to neither, had a 31-fold increased risk of disruptive behavioural disorders (DBDs) and a seven-fold increased risk of anxiety disorders. The synergy index demonstrated that offspring with two exposures had synergistic elevation in risk of DBDs (synergy index, 2.06, P = 0.03) and anxiety disorders (synergy index, 2.60, P = 0.004), compared with the sum of single risks. Offspring with two exposures had the highest parenting stress and lowest social support. CONCLUSIONS Our findings are consistent with the double-hit model suggesting that offspring with multiple early-life adverse exposures (Superstorm Sandy and maternal cannabis use) have synergistically increased risks of mental health problems. Given the increasing frequency of major natural disasters and cannabis use, especially among women under stress, these findings have significant public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Nomura
- Department of Psychology, CUNY Queens College and Graduate Center, Flushing, New York, USA; and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Jacob Ham
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Patricia M Pehme
- Department of Psychology, CUNY Queens College and Graduate Center, Flushing, New York, USA
| | - Waiman Wong
- Department of Psychology, CUNY Queens College and Graduate Center, Flushing, New York, USA
| | - Lexi Pritchett
- Department of Psychology, CUNY Queens College and Graduate Center, Flushing, New York, USA; and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | | | - Nancy S Foldi
- Department of Psychology, CUNY Queens College and Graduate Center, Flushing, New York, USA; and Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Brain Health Imaging Institute, New York, USA
| | - Veronica J Hinton
- Department of Psychology, CUNY Queens College and Graduate Center, Flushing, New York, USA
| | - Priya J Wickramaratne
- Columbia University Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Yasmin L Hurd
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA; and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Addiction Institute of Mount Sinai, New York, USA
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28
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Yamamoto T, Hanazato M, Hikichi H, Kondo K, Osaka K, Kawachi I, Aida J. Change in Geographic Accessibility to Dental Clinics Affects Access to Care. J Dent Res 2023:220345231167771. [PMID: 37204154 DOI: 10.1177/00220345231167771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Access to dental clinics is a feature of the neighborhood service environment that may influence oral health care utilization. However, residential selection poses a challenge to causal inference. By studying the involuntary relocation of survivors of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (GEJE), we examined the association between changes in geographic distance to dental clinics and dental visits. Longitudinal data from a cohort of older residents in Iwanuma City directly impacted by the GEJE were analyzed in this study. The baseline survey was conducted in 2010, 7 mo before the occurrence of GEJE, and a follow-up was conducted in 2016. Using Poisson regression models, we estimated the incidence rate ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the uptake of denture use (as a proxy for dental visits) according to changes in distance from the nearest dental clinic to their house. Age at baseline, housing damage by the disaster, deteriorating economic conditions, and worsened physical activity were used as confounders. Among the 1,098 participants who had not worn dentures before the GEJE, 495 were men (45.1%), with a mean ± SD age at baseline of 74.0 ± 6.9 y. During the 6-year follow-up, 372 (33.9%) participants initiated denture use. Compared to those who experienced a large increase in distance to dental clinics (>370.0-6,299.1 m), a large decrease in distance to dental clinics (>429.0-5,382.6 m) was associated with a marginally significantly higher initiation of denture use among disaster survivors (IRR = 1.28; 95% CI, 0.99-1.66). The experience of major housing damage was independently associated with higher initiation of denture use (IRR = 1.77; 95% CI, 1.47-2.14). Improved geographic access to dental clinics may increase dental visits of disaster survivors. Further studies in non-disaster-affected areas are needed to generalize these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yamamoto
- Department of Health Promotion, National Institute of Public Health, Saitama, Japan
| | - M Hanazato
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - H Hikichi
- Division of Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - K Kondo
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - K Osaka
- Department of International and Community Oral Health, Graduate School of Dentistry, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - I Kawachi
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J Aida
- Department of Oral Health Promotion, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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29
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Choiruddin A, Yuni Susanto T, Husain A, Mega Kartikasari Y. kppmenet: combining the kppm and elastic net regularization for inhomogeneous Cox point process with correlated covariates. J Appl Stat 2023; 51:993-1006. [PMID: 38524796 PMCID: PMC10956919 DOI: 10.1080/02664763.2023.2207786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
The kppm is a standard procedure to estimate the parameters of the inhomogeneous Cox point process. However, the procedure cannot handle the problem when the models involve correlated covariates. In this study, we develop the kppmenet , the modified version of the kppm , for the inhomogeneous Cox point process involving correlated covariates by considering elastic net regularization. We compare the methodology in a simulation study and apply it to model major-shallow earthquake distribution in Sumatra, Indonesia. We conclude that the kppmenet outperforms kppm when correlated covariates are involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achmad Choiruddin
- Departement of Statistics, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Tabita Yuni Susanto
- Departement of Statistics, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Husain
- Departement of Statistics, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), Surabaya, Indonesia
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30
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Buckley TD, Burnette D. Psychological sense of community, self-rated health and quality of life among older adults in Puerto Rico two years after Hurricane María. J Gerontol Soc Work 2023; 66:512-529. [PMID: 36217794 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2022.2133200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Older adults who experience natural disasters are at risk for immediate and longer-term negative health outcomes and diminished quality of life (QOL), in part due to disruptions to social relationships and protections. We use a risk and resilience framework to examine the protective effects of psychological sense of community (PSOC) on self-rated health (SRH) and QOL for older adults in Puerto Rico 2 years after the devastation of Hurricane María in 2017. Between September 2019 and January 2020, we conducted face-to-face interviews with a nonprobability sample of 154 community-dwelling adults aged 60+ in Puerto Rico. Controlling for covariates, we used multivariate regression to examine the association of PSOC and key social risk factors (mental health, social isolation, and loneliness) with SRH and QOL. Higher levels of PSOC were significantly associated with better SRH and QOL. Regarding risks, worse mental health was significantly associated with lower QOL and SRH, loneliness was significantly related to worse QOL, and social isolation was significantly associated with better SRH and better QOL. PSOC was a protective factor for older adults, suggesting that prevention and intervention efforts should focus on building and sustaining older adults' sense of community in the longer-term wake of natural disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Buckley
- School of Social Work and Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Denise Burnette
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Crompton D, Kohleis P, Shakespeare-Finch J, FitzGerald G, Young R. Opportunistic Mental Health Screening: Is there a Role Following a Disaster? Lessons from the 2010-2011 Queensland (Australia) Floods and Cyclones. Prehosp Disaster Med 2023; 38:223-231. [PMID: 36691688 PMCID: PMC10027488 DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x23000092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following the 2010-2011 floods and cyclones that affected 78% of Queensland, Australia, a State-wide mental health response was established. The response plan included a 24-hour access line. This study examines the effectiveness of the mental health screening program conducted via the State-wide health call center (13HEALTH) in 2012. METHODS Callers to the 13HEALTH line were screened to assess the impact of the disaster. The 13HEALTH clinicians administered the Primary Care-Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Scale (PC-PTSD) screening measure. Those scoring more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale were provided information on the emotional impact of disasters and a referral to the post-disaster specialist mental health program (SMHP). For calls related to those under 18, a single-item question assessed behavioral or emotional changes since the natural disasters. Those with identified changes were offered a referral to a post-disaster SMHP.The study evaluates the relationship between disaster exposure and the likelihood of 13HEALTH callers experiencing physical health concerns and unacknowledged mental health symptoms. The program's cost for the 12 months of 2012 was assessed using data from the financial contract. RESULTS In 2012, there were 205,064 calls to 13HEALTH: 19,708 identified as residing in a flood or cyclone-affected area, 7,315 adults indicated they were personally affected, and 907 scored more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale. Only 700 agreed to a referral to the SMHP. There were 290 children under 18 assessed as at risk; 207 accepted a referral to a SMHP.Regions that experienced a greater impact from the floods and cyclones were 1.3-2.3 times more likely to report being personally affected by the floods and cyclones. Similarly, these regions had more callers scoring more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale. The total cost of the 13HEALTH program for 2012 was $53,284 (AU) across all age groups. CONCLUSION The 13HEALTH general health post-disaster screening program demonstrates opportunistic screening may assist identification of those with unmet mental health needs. The data indicate an increased likelihood of personal exposure in the more affected regions with an increased risk of unrecognized psychological symptoms as assessed by the PC-PTSD Scale. However, more than 20% declined referral to a SMHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Crompton
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter Kohleis
- Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Gerard FitzGerald
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ross Young
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
- University Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
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Petrucci E, Cofini V, Pizzi B, Sollecchia G, Cascella M, Stefano N, Vittori A, Marinangeli F. Health Status Perception and Psychological Sequelae in Buried Victims: An Observational Study on Survivors of the Earthquake in Amatrice (Italy), Three Years Later. Prehosp Disaster Med 2023; 38:193-198. [PMID: 36803525 DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x23000146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The extrication from rubble is particularly critical for the survival of the victims of an earthquake. Early repeated infusion of sedative agents (SAs) in the acute trauma phase may interfere with neural processes leading to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). STUDY OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze the psychological status reported by the buried victims of the earthquake in Amatrice (August 24, 2016; Italy) by considering type of the SAs administered during the extrication maneuvers. METHODS This was an observational study on data from 51 patients directly rescued under the rubble during the earthquake in Amatrice. During extrication maneuvers, a moderate sedation was administered by titrating ketamine (0.3-0.5mg/kg) or morphine (0.1-0.15mg/kg) with respect to the Richmond Agitation and Sedation Scale (RASS; between -2 and -3) in buried victims.Three years following the rescue, the survivors were interviewed on their perceived health status and stress using a questionnaire which consisted of 17 items: the standard four-item set of healthy days core questions (CDC HRQOL-4); the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12); and in addition, survivors were asked if they had a diagnosis for anxiety, depression, or for PTSD. RESULTS The study analyzed data from the complete clinical documentation of 51 survivors; 30 were males and 21 females, with an average age of 52 years. Twenty-six (26) subjects were treated with ketamine, while 25 were treated with morphine, during the extrication procedures. Concerning the quality-of-life analysis, only 10 survivors out of 51 perceived their health status as good; the others reported psychological disorders. The GHQ-12 scores showed that all survivors had psychological distress with a mean total score of 22.2 (SD = 3.5). Eighteen (18) victims declared to have had a diagnosis of generalized anxiety (35%), while 29 were treated for depression (57%) and PTSD (57%) by a specialist. With regards to the perceived distress level and the anxiety disorder, this analysis showed significant associations with SAs used during extrication, with a better performance for ketamine than for morphine. CONCLUSION These findings suggest investigating whether early sedation with ketamine directly in the disaster setting may promote the prophylaxis and reduce the risk of developing trauma-related disorders (TRDs) on the buried victims of major natural disasters in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Petrucci
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, San Salvatore Academic Hospital of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Vincenza Cofini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Barbara Pizzi
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, SS Filippo and Nicola Academic Hospital of Avezzano, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giacomo Sollecchia
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Marco Cascella
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Necozione Stefano
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vittori
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, ARCO ROMA, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Marinangeli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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Keya TA, Leela A, Habib N, Rashid M, Bakthavatchalam P. Mental Health Disorders Due to Disaster Exposure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus 2023; 15:e37031. [PMID: 37143625 PMCID: PMC10153020 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural disasters are complex, global issues that affect people individually, families, and communities, upsetting their emotional wellbeing. This research aims to comprehend the connections between disasters and their effects on mental health. We conducted a systemic review and meta-analysis on the effect of disasters on mental health disorders using defined search terms across three major databases. The search technique adhered to the PECO framework. The study locations were dispersed across Asia, Europe, and America. An electronic search was established in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Medline databases. A random-effects meta-analysis was carried out. The I2 statistic was used to explore heterogeneity. In the random-effects analysis, Tau-squared, τ2, or Tau2 evaluates the effects seen between the study variances. Publication bias was examined. The outcomes of the included studies on mental health issues (n = 48,170) brought on by catastrophic disasters were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis. The three main mental health illnesses attributed to the disaster catastrophe in most studies were generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depression, substance use, adjustment disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Storms, including cyclones and snowstorms, had an impact on 5,151 individuals. 38,456 people were harmed by flooding, and 4,563 people were affected by the earthquake. The included studies showed prevalence rates for mental health disorders ranging from 5.8% to 87.6%. The prevalence rates were between 2.2% and 84% for anxiety, 3.23% and 52.70% for depression, and 2.6% and 52% for PTSD, respectively. The point effect estimates of studies included the flood, storm/cyclone, and earthquake were 0.07 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02-0.12), 0.18 (95% CI: 0.03-0.32), and 0.15 (95% CI: 0.03-0.27), respectively, which revealed a statistically significant positive effect (p-value: < 0.05) with a narrow 95% CI indicating more precise population estimates. However, the pooled effect estimates were not of a large effect size of 0.129 (95% CI: 0.05-0.20). This study found a link between disaster and poorer outcomes for mental health. The risk of psychological morbidity and fatalities increased with relocation and disruption of essential services. Flooding was the most frequent calamity. The "medium human development countries" were found to have the highest prevalence rate of mental health disorders in our meta-analysis. The "very high human development" and "high human development" nations, however, also had a higher prevalence rate of mental health disorders following catastrophic events. This study could aid in the creation of thorough strategies for the mitigation and avoidance of mental health problems during natural disasters. Increased community resilience, improved access to healthcare services, and a suitable mitigation strategy can all help to improve the situation of the disaster's vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahmina A Keya
- Community Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Pondicherry, IND
- Community Medicine, Asian Institute of Medicine, Science and Technology (AIMST) University, Bedong, MYS
| | - Anthony Leela
- Community Medicine, Asian Institute of Medicine, Science and Technology (AIMST) University, Bedong, MYS
| | - Nasrin Habib
- Physiology, Quest International University, Perak, MYS
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Cortés YI, Lassalle PP, Perreira KM. Health Care Access and Health Indicators in Puerto Rico Pre- and Post- Hurricane Maria: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (2015-2019). J Immigr Minor Health 2023; 25:247-254. [PMID: 35948823 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-022-01391-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hurricane Maria is regarded as one of the worst natural disasters in United States history as it devasted Puerto Rico (PR) in September 2017. This study compared population-based key health indicators among PR residents pre-and post-Hurricane Maria. We examined Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) PR data from five survey years, including pre-and post-Hurricane Maria: 2015 (N = 4556), 2016 (N = 5765), 2017 (N = 4462), 2018 (N = 4814), and 2019 (N = 4958). The sample consisted of non-institutionalized adults aged ≥ 18 years with access to a landline or a cellular telephone. Using logistic regression we compared health care utilization, health behaviors, and outcomes pre-and post-Hurricane Maria. Models adjusted for age, sex, race, education, employment, income, and marital status (2017 = referent). Compared to 2017, post-hurricane participants were more likely to have a college degree or higher, be currently employed, and not married/partnered. Post-hurricane, participants were less likely to have health insurance coverage (2018 AOR, 95% CI: 0.75, 0.58-0.97) and had lower rates of diabetes (2018 AOR: 0.82, 0.70-0.96). The odds of being overweight/obese were lower pre-hurricane compared to 2017 (2015 AOR, 95% CI: 0.88, 0.79-0.97). There was no statistically significant difference in health behaviors across survey years. Results may suggest that PR residents with lower socioeconomic status and/or chronic illness were more likely to emigrate, resulting in a compositional change in the population post-hurricane. This analysis highlights the need for long-term follow-up of PR residents to better determine the impact of Hurricane Maria, and adequately design public health programs to address healthcare needs, access, and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamnia I Cortés
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carrington Hall Campus #7460, 27599-7460, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Patricia Pagan Lassalle
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 209 Fetzer Hall CB#8700, 210 South Road, 27599-8700, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Krista M Perreira
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, MacNider Hall Campua Box #7240, 27599-7240, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Miller VE, Pence BW, Fitch KV, Swilley-Martinez M, Kavee AL, Dorris S, Cooper T, Keil AP, Gaynes BN, Carey TS, Goldston D, Ranapurwala S. Hurricane Florence and suicide mortality in North Carolina: a controlled interrupted time-series analysis. Inj Prev 2023; 29:180-185. [PMID: 36600665 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2022-044709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural disasters are associated with increased mental health disorders and suicidal ideation; however, associations with suicide deaths are not well understood. We explored how Hurricane Florence, which made landfall in September 2018, may have impacted suicide deaths in North Carolina (NC). METHODS We used publicly available NC death records data to estimate associations between Hurricane Florence and monthly suicide death rates using a controlled, interrupted time series analysis. Hurricane exposure was determined by using county-level support designations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. We examined effect modification by sex, age group, and race/ethnicity. RESULTS 8363 suicide deaths occurred between January 2014 and December 2019. The overall suicide death rate in NC between 2014 and 2019 was 15.53 per 100 000 person-years (95% CI 15.20 to 15.87). Post-Hurricane, there was a small, immediate increase in the suicide death rate among exposed counties (0.89/100 000 PY; 95% CI -2.69 to 4.48). Comparing exposed and unexposed counties, there was no sustained post-Hurricane Florence change in suicide death rate trends (0.02/100 000 PY per month; 95% CI -0.33 to 0.38). Relative to 2018, NC experienced a statewide decline in suicides in 2019. An immediate increase in suicide deaths in Hurricane-affected counties versus Hurricane-unaffected counties was observed among women, people under age 65 and non-Hispanic black individuals, but there was no sustained change in the months after Hurricane Florence. CONCLUSIONS Although results did not indicate a strong post-Hurricane Florence impact on suicide rates, subgroup analysis suggests differential impacts of Hurricane Florence on several groups, warranting future follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Eve Miller
- Injury Prevention Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian W Pence
- Injury Prevention Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kate Vinita Fitch
- Injury Prevention Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Monica Swilley-Martinez
- Injury Prevention Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrew L Kavee
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Samantha Dorris
- Injury Prevention Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Toska Cooper
- Injury Prevention Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alexander P Keil
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bradley N Gaynes
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Timothy S Carey
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - David Goldston
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shabbar Ranapurwala
- Injury Prevention Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Diamantis DV, Katsas K, Kastorini CM, Mugford L, Dalma N, Ramizi M, Papapanagiotou O, Veloudaki A, Linos A, Kouvari M. Older People in Emergencies; Addressing Food Insecurity, Health Status and Quality of Life: Evaluating the "365+ Days of Care" Program. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:5235. [PMID: 37047851 PMCID: PMC10094139 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
During emergencies, older adults stand among the most vulnerable, facing long-lasting food insecurity and overall health issues. The "365+ Days of Care" food aid program addressed food insecurity and poor quality of life among vulnerable older adults following a devastating wildfire in Greece. Our aim was to evaluate the program's efficiency, using a process evaluation framework and a partial cost-utility analysis. In total, n = 133 wildfire-hit residents (≥65 years) received daily tailored, pre-cooked meals and/or weekly food packages. The study outcomes were assessed from baseline to 12 months later. Focus groups and interviews (n = 30), researcher observations, and questionnaires were used to assess the beneficiaries' perception of the initiative. Within the 12-month follow-up period, food insecurity and malnutrition risk decreased, whereas Mediterranean diet adherence; quality of life; and physical, social, and mental health were improved (p < 0.05). A one-point increase in food insecurity was positively associated with improved quality of life, general health, limitation in activities, body pain, vitality, and pain/discomfort (p's < 0.05), and it was marginally associated with mobility, anxiety/depression, and self-evaluated health status (p's < 0.1). Quantitative and qualitative data characterized it as successful, acceptable, beneficial, and of high quality. The partial cost-utility ratio was one QALY gained per EUR 22.608. The utilization of well-designed food aid programs during emergencies can alleviate food insecurity and improve quality of life in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios V. Diamantis
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Konstantinos Katsas
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Maria Kastorini
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Lyndsey Mugford
- Department of History of Science, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard College, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Nadia Dalma
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Marsellos Ramizi
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Ourania Papapanagiotou
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Afroditi Veloudaki
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Athena Linos
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Matina Kouvari
- Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis, 15121 Athens, Greece; (D.V.D.); (K.K.)
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Science and Education, Harokopio University, 17676 Athens, Greece
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- Functional Foods and Nutrition Research (FFNR) Laboratory, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
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Kyoo-Man Ha. Improving disaster management in international tourism. Manag Rev Q 2023. [ DOI: 10.1007/s11301-023-00338-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite strong interest in tourism during the pandemic, frameworks of disaster management have not been rigorously provided for the international tourism field. The present research aimed to study how to improve disaster management in international tourism toward mitigating human suffering and economic damages. Qualitative content analysis was used as the key methodology in investigating passive and active disaster management. These two approaches were compared considering tourists, tourism industry, regional governments, and international organizations as variables. The main finding has been that stakeholders must shift from passive to active disaster management, while strategically addressing networking, the disaster management cycle, and local education, among other factors. This study provided a systematic framework of disaster management by studying not only the supply but also the demand side in international tourism.
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Hajek A, König HH. Do Individuals with High Climate Anxiety Believe That They Will Die Earlier? First Evidence from Germany. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:5064. [PMID: 36981973 PMCID: PMC10048977 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20065064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the association between climate anxiety and perceived longevity in the general adult German population (also stratified by age group). STUDY DESIGN Nationally representative survey. METHODS Data were used of the general adult German population, with n = 3015 individuals (18 to 74 years; data collection: March 2022). Climate anxiety was assessed using the validated Climate Anxiety Scale. It was adjusted for a wide array of covariates in linear-log regression analysis. RESULTS Even after adjusting for various covariates, there was an association between higher (log) climate anxiety and a lower perceived longevity in the total sample (β = -1.41, p < 0.01). Stratified by age group, a significant association was only present among individuals aged 18 to 29 years (β = -3.58, p = 0.01), whereas it was not present in the other age groups (i.e., individuals aged 30 to 49 years, individuals aged 50 to 64 years, and individuals aged 65 years and over). CONCLUSIONS This study showed an association between higher climate anxiety and lower perceived longevity, particularly among younger individuals. More clearly, younger individuals with a higher climate anxiety think they will die earlier. This is the first study on this topic and could serve as a foundation for upcoming research. For example, longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our findings.
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Lokmic-Tomkins Z, Bhandari D, Bain C, Borda A, Kariotis TC, Reser D. Lessons Learned from Natural Disasters around Digital Health Technologies and Delivering Quality Healthcare. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:4542. [PMID: 36901559 PMCID: PMC10001761 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
As climate change drives increased intensity, duration and severity of weather-related events that can lead to natural disasters and mass casualties, innovative approaches are needed to develop climate-resilient healthcare systems that can deliver safe, quality healthcare under non-optimal conditions, especially in remote or underserved areas. Digital health technologies are touted as a potential contributor to healthcare climate change adaptation and mitigation, through improved access to healthcare, reduced inefficiencies, reduced costs, and increased portability of patient information. Under normal operating conditions, these systems are employed to deliver personalised healthcare and better patient and consumer involvement in their health and well-being. During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital health technologies were rapidly implemented on a mass scale in many settings to deliver healthcare in compliance with public health interventions, including lockdowns. However, the resilience and effectiveness of digital health technologies in the face of the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters remain to be determined. In this review, using the mixed-methods review methodology, we seek to map what is known about digital health resilience in the context of natural disasters using case studies to demonstrate what works and what does not and to propose future directions to build climate-resilient digital health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerina Lokmic-Tomkins
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, 35 Rainforest Walk, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Dinesh Bhandari
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, 35 Rainforest Walk, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Chris Bain
- Digital Health Theme, Department of Human-Centered Computing, Faculty of Information Technology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Ann Borda
- Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Information Studies, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Timothy Charles Kariotis
- School of Computing and Information System, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Melbourne School of Government, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - David Reser
- Graduate Entry Medicine Program, Monash Rural Health-Churchill, Churchill, VIC 3842, Australia
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Belleville G, Ouellet MC, Békés V, Lebel J, Morin CM, Bouchard S, Guay S, Bergeron N, Ghosh S, Campbell T, Macmaster FP. Efficacy of a Therapist-Assisted Self-Help Internet-Based Intervention Targeting PTSD, Depression, and Insomnia Symptoms After a Disaster: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Behav Ther 2023; 54:230-246. [PMID: 36858756 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed at evaluating the efficacy of an online CBT intervention with limited therapist contact targeting a range of posttraumatic symptoms among evacuees from the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfires. One hundred and thirty-six residents of Fort McMurray who reported either moderate PTSD symptoms (PCL-5 ≥ 23) or mild PTSD symptoms (PCL-5 ≥ 10) with moderate depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 10) or subthreshold insomnia symptoms (ISI ≥ 8) were randomized either to a treatment (n = 69) or a waitlist condition (n = 67). Participants were on average 45 years old, and mostly identified as White (82%) and as women (76%). Primary outcomes were PTSD, depression, and insomnia symptoms. Secondary outcomes were anxiety symptoms and disability. Significant Assessment Time × Treatment Condition interactions were observed on all outcomes, indicating that access to the treatment led to a decrease in posttraumatic stress (F[1,117.04] = 12.128, p = .001; d = .519, 95% CI = .142-.895), depression (F[1,118.29] = 9.978, p = .002; d = .519, 95% CI = .141-.898) insomnia (F[1,117.60] = 4.574, p = .035; d = .512, 95% CI = .132-.892), and anxiety (F[1,119.64] = 5.465, p = .021; d = .421, 95% CI = .044-.797) symptom severity and disability (F[1,111.55] = 7.015, p = .009; d = .582, 95% CI = .200-.963). Larger effect sizes (d = 0.823-1.075) were observed in participants who completed at least half of the treatment. The RESILIENT online treatment platform was successful to provide access to specialized evidence-based mental health care after a disaster.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Stéphane Guay
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal
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Gopolan T, Ornelas-Brauer CM, Barbar T, Mithani Z, Silberzweig J. Conflict Nephrology: War and Natural Disasters. Kidney360 2023; 4:405-408. [PMID: 36763799 PMCID: PMC10103227 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0000000000000071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Access to care for patients with ESKD is frequently disrupted after natural disasters, public health crises, and human conflict. Emergency preparation can mitigate the risk of harm and improve outcomes. Before Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the United States was unprepared to assist patients facing disaster. We evaluate responses to Hurricane Katrina which caused unprecedented damage to health and property in the Gulf Coast. As a result of the multitude of identified problems with the national, local, and kidney-specific responses to Katrina, new systems were created that mitigated loss after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The improved disaster response system was no match for the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic; real-time changes worsened the effect on highly vulnerable populations, including patients with ESKD. Similarly, preparation can only mitigate the difficulties faced by patients with ESKD living in a war zone. Government agencies need to provide tools and dialysis centers need to educate patients. Beginning with steps implemented in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and augmented after Hurricane Sandy, every patient with ESKD and those who care for them must begin emergency preparations before the need arises. Recognizing that it is not possible to prepare for every possible emergency, our health care systems must be ready to adapt to our ever-changing world. After reviewing the responses to previous events, we suggest steps that should be considered to improve preparations for our uncertain future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tulasi Gopolan
- University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine, Dallas, Texas
| | | | | | - Zain Mithani
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Leonard Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Jeffrey Silberzweig
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
- The Rogosin Institute, New York, New York
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Thomas P, Varghese SM, Benjamin AI. People's Response to Disaster: A Population Based Study of the Victims of 2018 Flood in Kerala, South India. Indian J Community Med 2023; 48:310-315. [PMID: 37323753 PMCID: PMC10263031 DOI: 10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_309_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Natural disasters cause much hardship and suffering, loss of property, and increased morbidity and mortality amongst those affected. Timely and effective response for relief and rescue services go a long way in mitigating these consequences. Material and Methods This population-based cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted in the immediate aftermath of the catastrophic flood that occurred in Kerala, South India, in 2018, documents the experiences of the victims, the community's preparedness, and response to the disaster. Results Flood waters reached levels of over four feet within the premises of 55% of the houses and nearly 97% had water flooding inside their homes. More than 93% of the households were evacuated to safer locations and relief camps. The elderly and those with chronic illnesses were the worst sufferers, unable to access medical aid. Many families (62%) received help from neighbors. Conclusion However, the loss of lives was minimal, and could be attributed to the immediate response of the local community in rescue and relief work. This experience underscores the vital importance of the local community as first responders, and their preparedness for disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramod Thomas
- Department of Community Medicine, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India
| | - Sangeetha M. Varghese
- Department of Community Medicine, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India
| | - Anoop I. Benjamin
- Department of Community Medicine, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Among natural disasters, earthquake is associated with heavy fatalities and financial damages, causing considerable mortality. The complications resulting from getting trapped in rubble, secondary traumas, obligation to reside in temporary shelters, along with other factors such as limited mobility, stress, and dehydration, predispose earthquake survivors to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). The aim of the present study is to investigate the rate of DVT after an earthquake using a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS To perform the present study, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline was used. The protocol of this review study has been registered in the International Perspective Register of Systematic Review (PROSPERO) with the code of CRD42021290375. Credible data resources including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Magiran, SID, and Embase were used for extracting relevant studies. Random effect model was used to perform the meta-analysis. I2 was ritualized to investigate heterogeneity across the studies. Publication bias of studies was evaluated using the Begg test. RESULTS In this study, 267 primary studies were identified and extracted. After removing the duplicate ones and the screening, eventually 12 final studies were chosen for the meta-analysis. Based on the meta-analysis results, the total rate of DVT was 9.07% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.32-10.81; I2 = 97.9%; P = 0<0.001). Analysis of DVT in the subgroups of the general population and patient survivors were 11.43% (95% CI: 9.06-13.79; I2 = 98%; P = 0<0.001) and 2.51% (95% CI: 0.04-4.63; I2 = 77.7%; P = 0.001). Also, based on the Begg test, the publication bias in the chosen studies was not considerable. CONCLUSIONS DVT rate in earthquake survivors is higher compared with other disasters, and over time it finds a growing trend. After earthquake, the focus of rescue and health-care teams is on individuals with observable injuries and damages. Because DVT is first asymptomatic but has fatal consequences, including pulmonary embolism and sudden death, it should be incorporated in health's status assessment of earthquake-stricken people as well as screening and diagnostic programs of health-care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Sahebi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Bayram Nejati-Zarnaqi
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Vasei
- Department of Surgery, Besat Hospital, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Katayoun Jahangiri
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Safety Promotion and Injury Prevention Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Shiba K, Daoud A, Hikichi H, Yazawa A, Aida J, Kondo K, Kawachi I. Uncovering Heterogeneous Associations Between Disaster-Related Trauma and Subsequent Functional Limitations: A Machine-Learning Approach. Am J Epidemiol 2023; 192:217-229. [PMID: 36255224 PMCID: PMC10308508 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwac187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined heterogeneity in the association between disaster-related home loss and functional limitations of older adults, and identified characteristics of vulnerable subpopulations. Data were from a prospective cohort study of Japanese older survivors of the 2011 Japan Earthquake. Complete home loss was objectively assessed. Outcomes in 2013 (n = 3,350) and 2016 (n = 2,664) included certified physical disability levels, self-reported activities of daily living, and instrumental activities of daily living. We estimated population average associations between home loss and functional limitations via targeted maximum likelihood estimation with SuperLearning and its heterogeneity via the generalized random forest algorithm. We adjusted for 55 characteristics of survivors from the baseline survey conducted 7 months before the disaster. While home loss was consistently associated with increased functional limitations on average, there was evidence of effect heterogeneity for all outcomes. Comparing the most and least vulnerable groups, the most vulnerable group tended to be older, not married, living alone, and not working, with preexisting health problems before the disaster. Individuals who were less educated but had higher income also appeared vulnerable for some outcomes. Our inductive approach for effect heterogeneity using machine learning algorithm uncovered large and complex heterogeneity in postdisaster functional limitations among Japanese older survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichiro Shiba
- Correspondence to Dr. Koichiro Shiba, Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 (e-mail )
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Janson M, Felix ED, Kaniasty K, Lugo-Hernández EA, Rosa-Rodríguez Y, Canino G. Life stressors and posttraumatic stress symptoms mediate the association between disaster exposure and identity-related distress in emerging adults. J Am Coll Health 2023:1-10. [PMID: 36701432 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2155826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The current multi-university, multi-disaster study examined the impact of natural disaster exposure on identity-related distress through life stressors and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Participants: Young adult university students (n = 665, 77% female, M = 20.5 years old) participated in Wave (W) 1. Half provided contact information for follow-up, and 136 university students participated in W2. Method: University students in the mainland U.S. and Puerto Rico were asked about disaster exposure, life stressors, PTSS, and identity-related distress at W1 (M = 9.7 months post-disaster) and identity-related distress at W2 (M = 12.4 months after W1). Two serial mediation models assessed the indirect effect of disaster exposure on W1 and W2 identity-related distress through life stressors and PTSS. Results: Disaster exposure impacted identity-related distress concurrently and longitudinally through increasing life stressors since disaster and PTSS. Conclusion: Potential supportive services should address identity-related distress among disaster-exposed young adults with PTSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Janson
- Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, The Gevirtz School, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Erika D Felix
- Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, The Gevirtz School, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Krzysztof Kaniasty
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Yarimar Rosa-Rodríguez
- Institute for Psychological Research, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Glorisa Canino
- Behavioral Sciences Research Institute, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, Puerto Rico, USA
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Sattler DN, Graham JM, Whippy A, Atienza R, Johnson J. Developing a Climate Change Risk Perception Model in the Philippines and Fiji: Posttraumatic Growth Plays Central Role. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:1518. [PMID: 36674273 PMCID: PMC9864743 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This two-study paper developed a climate change risk perception model that considers the role of posttraumatic growth (i.e., a reappraisal of life priorities and deeper appreciation of life), resource loss, posttraumatic stress, coping, and social support. METHOD In Study 1, participants were 332 persons in the Philippines who experienced Super Typhoon Haiyan. In Study 2, participants were 709 persons in Fiji who experienced Cyclone Winston. Climate change can increase the size and destructive potential of cyclones and typhoons as a result of warming ocean temperatures, which provides fuel for these storms. Participants completed measures assessing resource loss, posttraumatic stress, coping, social support, posttraumatic growth, and climate change risk perception. RESULTS Structural equation modeling was used to develop a climate change risk perception model with data collected in the Philippines and to confirm the model with data collected in Fiji. The model showed that climate change risk perception was influenced by resource loss, posttraumatic stress, coping activation, and posttraumatic growth. The model developed in the Philippines was confirmed with data collected in Fiji. CONCLUSIONS Posttraumatic growth played a central role in climate change risk perception. Public health educational efforts should focus on vividly showing how climate change threatens life priorities and that which gives life meaning and can result in loss, stress, and hardship. Disaster response organizations may also use this approach to promote preparedness for disaster threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- David N. Sattler
- Department of Psychology, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225-9172, USA
| | - James M. Graham
- Department of Psychology, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225-9172, USA
| | - Albert Whippy
- Institute of Applied Sciences, University of the South Pacific, Suva, Fiji
| | - Richard Atienza
- Department of American Ethnic Studies, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-4380, USA
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Sahota H, Guzman S, Tordera L, Chan M, Cocohoba J, Saberi P. Pharmacy Deserts and Pharmacies' Roles Post-Extreme Weather and Climate Events in the United States: A Scoping Review. J Prim Care Community Health 2023; 14:21501319231186497. [PMID: 37431885 DOI: 10.1177/21501319231186497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of climate change are seen with a rise of extreme weather and climate events (EWCEs) which lead to the closures of many healthcare facilities, such as community pharmacies. Pharmacists in community pharmacies are seen as the most accessible healthcare professional to the public and are responsible for the continued delivery of care to patients. However, amid closures due to EWCEs and the emergence of pharmacy deserts, there is decreased access to pharmacies and a disruption of care. OBJECTIVE It is important to address the preparedness and accessibility of pharmacies post-EWCEs to guide future research and policy. Additionally, to tackle health disparities that arise due to pharmacy deserts, the populations most affected by a decreased access to pharmacies should be identified. We conducted a scoping review to assess the preparedness and accessibility of pharmacies post-EWCEs and to identify populations most affected by pharmacy deserts. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from January 1, 2012 to September 30, 2022 and included all English-language, peer-reviewed primary literature that examined the preparedness and accessibility of community pharmacies in the United States post-EWCEs and addressed disparities within pharmacy deserts. Studies meeting these criteria were screened of their titles and abstracts by the first author and discrepancies were resolved with co-authors. We used Covidence for data extraction. RESULTS A total of 472 studies were identified (196 duplicates removed) and after screening, 53 studies were assessed for eligibility. The results of included publications (N = 26) showed that pharmacists and pharmacies are not equipped with the necessary emergency protocols which could lead to decreased access of pharmacies in the wake of EWCEs. Pharmacy deserts disproportionately affect residents living in rural, lower income, and Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino neighborhoods. The lack of preparedness of pharmacies post-EWCEs could worsen medication access. CONCLUSION This scoping review addresses challenges impacting pharmacies and patients post-EWCEs and within pharmacy deserts. In times of increased need, these challenges implicate the well-being of communities affected by EWCEs by breaking the continuum of care and access to medications. Here we offer suggestions for future research and directions for policy change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harpreet Sahota
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Samantha Guzman
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Michelle Chan
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Parya Saberi
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Nishida K, Watanabe F, Kojima T. Efficacy of in-situ simulation training using evaluation checklists for sudden oxygen supply failure during general anesthesia: A preliminary report. Saudi J Anaesth 2023; 17:1-6. [PMID: 37032690 PMCID: PMC10077802 DOI: 10.4103/sja.sja_541_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sudden oxygen supply failure (OSF) is a life-threatening consequence that may be triggered by natural disasters. Anesthesiologists are required to manage OSF promptly in such catastrophic situations. However, the current evidence regarding the efficacy of anesthesia training for sudden OSF is insufficient. This preliminary study aimed to introduce our in-situ simulation training utilizing evaluation checklists for a sudden OSF situation during general anesthesia and to evaluate the efficacy of the training program for anesthesia providers. Methods This is a preliminary single-center, prospective study. We developed an OSF simulation scenario utilizing evaluation checklists with key actions to manage OSF. The training session comprised four components: orientation, benchmark evaluation (pre-test) according to the checklists, a short didactic lecture, and post-lecture evaluation (post-test). The scenario comprised two steps wherein the participants were supposed to utilize different oxygen supply sources immediately after OSF (Step 1) and minimize the amount of oxygen consumption (Step 2). Results Fifteen anesthesia providers were enrolled. The score for all anesthesia providers in the post-test was significantly higher than that in the pre-test (median 8 [IQR: 8, 8], 3 [IQR: 3, 4], P < 0.001, respectively). The successful performance rates of all anesthesia providers in one key action of all the four in Step 1 and four of all the six in Step 2 were significantly higher in the post-test than in the pre-test. Conclusions Our in-situ training method utilizing evaluation checklists for a sudden OSF situation improved overall performance of anesthesia providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Nishida
- Department of Anesthesiology, Aichi Children's Healthy and Medical Center, Obu-City, Aichi, Japan
| | - Fumio Watanabe
- Department of Anesthesiology, Aichi Children's Healthy and Medical Center, Obu-City, Aichi, Japan
| | - Taiki Kojima
- Department of Anesthesiology, Aichi Children's Healthy and Medical Center, Obu-City, Aichi, Japan
- Comprehensive Pediatric Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
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Rohwerder B, Wong S, Pokharel S, Khadka D, Poudyal N, Prasai S, Shrestha N, Wickenden M, Morrison J. Describing adolescents with disabilities' experiences of COVID-19 and other humanitarian emergencies in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review. Glob Health Action 2022; 15:2107350. [PMID: 36065825 PMCID: PMC9467561 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2107350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic and other humanitarian emergencies exacerbate pre-existing inequalities faced by people with disabilities. They experience worse access to health, education, and social services, and increased violence in comparison with people without disabilities. Adolescents with disabilities are amongst those most severely affected in these situations. Using participatory research methods with adolescents can be more effective than other methods but may be challenging in such emergency contexts. OBJECTIVES We conducted a scoping review to: 1) describe the literature and methods used in peer-reviewed and grey literature on adolescents (aged ten to nineteen) with disabilities' experience of COVID-19 and other humanitarian emergencies in low- and middle-income countries, and 2) identify research gaps and make recommendations for future research. METHODS The review followed a protocol developed using PRISMA guidelines and the Arksey and O'Malley framework. We searched grey and peer-reviewed literature between 2011 and 2021. RESULTS Thirty studies were included. Twelve were peer-reviewed, and of those seven used participatory methods. Humanitarian emergencies had adverse effects on adolescents with disabilities across health, education, livelihoods, social protection, and community participation domains. Surprisingly few studies collected data directly with adolescents with disabilities. Twenty-three studies combined data from non-disabled children, caregivers, and disabled adults which made it challenging to understand adolescents with disabilities' unique experience. CONCLUSIONS Our review highlights both the scarcity of literature and the importance of conducting research with adolescents with disabilities in humanitarian contexts. Despite challenges, our review shows that it has been possible to conduct research with adolescents with disabilities to explore their experiences of humanitarian emergencies, and that these experiences were different from those of non-disabled adolescents. There is a need to disaggregate findings and support the implementation and reporting of rigorous research methods. Capacity development through partnerships between non-governmental organisations and researchers may improve reporting of methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Rohwerder
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, England
| | - Sara Wong
- UCL Institute for Global Health, London, England
| | | | - Dipesh Khadka
- School of Arts, Kathmandu University, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Niraj Poudyal
- School of Arts, Kathmandu University, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Sagar Prasai
- Diverse Patterns, Battisputali, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Nir Shrestha
- Diverse Patterns, Battisputali, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Mary Wickenden
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, England
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Cerna-Turoff I, Maurer K, Baiocchi M. Pre-processing data to reduce biases: full matching incorporating an instrumental variable in population-based studies. Int J Epidemiol 2022; 51:1920-1930. [PMID: 35560220 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyac097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiologists are often concerned with unobserved biases that produce confounding in population-based studies. We introduce a new design approach-'full matching incorporating an instrumental variable (IV)' or 'Full-IV Matching'-and illustrate its utility in reducing observed and unobserved biases to increase inference accuracy. Our motivating example is tailored to a central question in humanitarian emergencies-the difference in sexual violence risk by displacement setting. METHODS We conducted a series of 1000 Monte Carlo simulations generated from a population-based survey after the 2010 Haitian earthquake and included earthquake damage severity as an IV and the unmeasured variable of 'social capital'. We compared standardized mean differences (SMDs) for covariates after different designs to understand potential biases. Mean risk differences (RDs) were used to assess each design's accuracy in estimating the oracle of the simulated data set. RESULTS Naive analysis and pair matching equivalently performed. Full matching reduced imbalances between exposed and comparison groups across covariates, except for the unobserved covariate of 'social capital'. Pair and full matching overstated differences in sexual violence risk when displaced to a camp vs a community [pair: RD = 0.13, 95% simulation interval (SI) 0.09-0.16; full: RD = 0.11, 95% SI 0.08-0.14). Full-IV Matching reduced imbalances across observed covariates and importantly 'social capital'. The estimated risk difference (RD = 0.07, 95% SI 0.03-0.11) was closest to the oracle (RD = 0.06, 95% SI 0.4-0.8). CONCLUSION Full-IV Matching is a novel approach that is promising for increasing inference accuracy when unmeasured sources of bias likely exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilan Cerna-Turoff
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Katherine Maurer
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Michael Baiocchi
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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