Risk factors for mortality in the Bangladesh cyclone of 1991.

Autor: Bern C; Respiratory and Enteric Virus Branch, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA 30333., Sniezek J, Mathbor GM, Siddiqi MS, Ronsmans C, Chowdhury AM, Choudhury AE, Islam K, Bennish M, Noji E, et. al.
Jazyk: angličtina
Zdroj: Bulletin of the World Health Organization [Bull World Health Organ] 1993; Vol. 71 (1), pp. 73-8.
Abstrakt: Cyclones continue to pose a dangerous threat to the coastal populations of Bangladesh, despite improvements in disaster control procedures. After 138,000 persons died in the April 1991 cyclone, we carried out a rapid epidemiological assessment to determine factors associated with cyclone-related mortality and to identify prevention strategies. A nonrandom survey of 45 housing clusters comprising 1123 persons showed that mortality was greatest among under-10-year-olds (26%) and women older than 40 years (31%). Nearly 22% of persons who did not reach a concrete or brick structure died, whereas all persons who sought refuge in such structures survived. Future cyclone-associated mortality in Bangladesh could be prevented by more effective warnings leading to an earlier response, better access to designated cyclone shelters, and improved preparedness in high-risk communities. In particular, deaths among women and under-10-year-olds could be reduced by ensuring that they are given special attention by families, neighbours, local authorities, and especially those in charge of early warnings and emergency evacuation.
Databáze: MEDLINE