Factors Associated with Urban Risk-Taking Behaviour during 2018 Typhoon Mangkhut: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Although much of the health emergency and disaster risk management (Health-EDRM) literature evaluates methods to protect health assets and mitigate health risks from disasters, there is a lack of research into those who have taken high-risk behaviour during extreme events. The study’s main objective is to examine the association between engaging in high-risk behaviour and factors including sociodemographic characteristics, disaster risk perception and household preparedness during a super typhoon. A computerized randomized digit dialling cross-sectional household survey was conducted in Hong Kong, an urban metropolis, two weeks after the landing of Typhoon Mangkhut. Telephone interviews were conducted in Cantonese with adult residents. The response rate was 23.8% and the sample was representative of the Hong Kong population. Multivariable logistic regressions of 521 respondents adjusted with age and gender found education, income, risk perception and disaster preparedness were insignificantly associated with risk-taking behaviour during typhoons. This suggests that other factors may be involved in driving this behaviour, such as a general tendency to underestimate risk or sensation seeking. Further Health-EDRM research into risk-taking and sensation seeking behaviour during extreme events is needed to identify policy measures.

Prevalence and Factors Determining Adolescents Risk Taking Behaviours in Sarawak, Malaysia

“…such as psychological, sociocultural, economic, and environmental factors. [30][31][32][33][34] Our findings indicate that individuals lacking a robust bond with their parents (AOR=2.02) are more likely to engage in low-medium levels of risky behaviour. On the other hand, a strained relationship between parents can also influence these risky behaviours.…”

Research in Health-Emergency and Disaster Risk Management and Its Potential Implications in the Post COVID-19 World

“…In this issue, five studies are published to delineate population health risks that may be associated with climate change in various contexts. The studies examine socio-demographic patterns of self-help and community bottom-up health protection strategies during extreme temperature events [ 7 , 8 ] (Lam et al, Liu et al) and typhoon/hurricane [ 9 , 10 ] (Shang et al, Shih et al). In addition, with the global increasing health risks associated with vector-borne diseases as a result of climate abnormalities, [ 11 ] Chan et al present a narrative review paper of the current understanding of primary preventive Health-EDRM measures that might reduce the health risks of vector-borne disease in communities.…”