Climate disasters and oncology care: a systematic review of effects on patients, healthcare professionals, and health systems

Ginex, Pamela; Dickman, Erin; Elia, Marinos; Burbage, Darcy; Koos, Jessica; Sivakumaran, K

doi:10.1007/s00520-023-07842-z

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 42 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…After natural disasters, cancer patients face heightened vulnerabilities, including treatment delays, interruptions in care, resource shortages, and loss of medical records. Notably, Ginex et al [11 ▪▪ ] highlighted a significant drop in the utilization of brachytherapy in Puerto Rico by 70%, alongside observed cancellations of cancer surgeries in Mexico, which faced median delays of 22.5 days. The aftermath of hurricanes in the southern United States and Puerto Rico witnessed notable declines in cervical cancer screening rates [12,13], whereas Fukushima's triple disaster led to a downturn in colorectal cancer screening [14].…”

Section: Literature Evidencementioning

confidence: 99%

Assessing the ripple effects of natural disasters on healthcare systems: a narrative review

Dagnino,

Qian,

Beatrici

2024

Current Opinion in Urology

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Purpose of review Natural disasters are on the rise, driven by shifts in climatic patterns largely attributed to human-induced climate change. This relentless march of climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of these disasters, heightening the vulnerability of communities and causing significant harm to both lives and socio-economic systems. Healthcare services are particularly strained during extreme weather events, with impacts felt not only on infrastructure but also on patient care. Recent findings This narrative review explored the overarching impact of natural disasters on healthcare infrastructure. We delved into how these disasters impact diverse health conditions, the healthcare systems of low and middle-income countries (LMICs), the psychological toll on both clinicians and survivors, and the ramifications for end-of-life care. Summary Natural disasters significantly impact healthcare, especially in LMICs due to their limited resources. Patients with cancer or chronic diseases struggle to access care following a natural disaster. Those in need for palliative care experience delay due to shortages in medical resources. Psychological consequences like posttraumatic stress disorder on disaster survivors and healthcare providers highlight the need for mental health support. Addressing challenges requires proactive disaster preparedness policies and urgent public policy initiatives are needed for optimal disaster response.

show abstract

Section: Literature Evidencementioning

confidence: 99%