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Disaster Prevention and Management
ISSN: 0965-3562
Online from: 1992
Subject Area: Environmental Management/Environment
Content: Latest Issue | Latest Issue RSS | Previous Issues
Options: To add Favourites and Table of Contents Alerts please take a Emerald profile
-Title: A snapshot of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami: societal
impacts and consequences
Author(s): Havidan Rodriguez, (Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, Disaster Research Center, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA), Tricia Wachtendorf, (Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, Disaster Research Center, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA), James Kendra, (Department of Public Administration, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, USA), Joseph Trainor, (Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, Disaster Research Center, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA)
Citation: Havidan Rodriguez, Tricia Wachtendorf, James Kendra, Joseph Trainor, (2006) "A snapshot of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami: societal impacts and consequences", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 15 Iss: 1, pp.163 – 177
Keywords: Disasters, Earthquakes, Sumatra, Sustainable development, Tidal waves
Article type:
Research paper
DOI: 10.1108/09653560610654310 (Permanent URL)
Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the societal impacts and consequences of the December 26,
2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
Design/methodology/approach – One month after the tsunami, a group of social science researchers from the Disaster Research Center, University of Delaware, and the Emergency Administration and Planning Program, University of North Texas, participated in an Earthquake Engineering Research Institute reconnaissance team, which traveled to some of the most affected areas in India and Sri Lanka. Data were obtained through informal interviews, participant observation, and systematic document gathering.
Findings – This research yielded important data and information on disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. A number of issues are identified that emerged from the field observations, including: tsunami education and awareness; the devastation and the loss; economic impact; mental health issues; irregularities and inequities in community based response and recovery efforts and in the distribution of disaster relief aid; gender and inequality; and relocation and housing issues.
Practical implications – The paper highlights the role and importance of generating integrated early warning systems and strategies aimed at fostering sustainable recovery and building disaster resilient communities.
Originality/value – An extensive amount of perishable data were collected thus providing a better understanding of the societal impacts of disasters on impoverished communities. A number of emerging issues are identified that should be of primary concern in efforts to protect populations residing in coastal regions throughout the world from similar catastrophes.
Separate and Unequal: Post-Tsunami Aid Distribution in Southern India†
1. Daniel P. Aldrich
Article first published online: 26 OCT 2010
DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-6237.2010.00736.x
© 2010 by the Southwestern Social Science Association
Objective. Disasters are a regular occurrence throughout the world. Whether all eligible victims of a catastrophe receive similar amounts of aid from governments and donors following a crisis remains an open question.
Methods. I use data on 62 similarly damaged inland fishing villages in five districts of southeastern India following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami to measure the causal influence of caste, location, wealth, and bridging social capital on the receipt of aid. Using two-limit tobit and negative binomial models, I investigate the factors that influence the time spent in refugee camps, receipt of an initial aid packet, and receipt of 4,000 rupees.
Results. Caste, family status, and wealth proved to be powerful predictors of beneficiaries and nonbeneficiaries during the aid process.
Conclusion. While many scholars and practitioners envision aid distribution as primarily a technocratic process, this research shows that discrimination and financial resources strongly affect the flow of disaster aid.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Year : 2012 | Volume : 54 | Issue : 1 | Page : 48-53
factors of Risk post-traumatic stress disorder in tsunami survivors of Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India
TT Pyari1, Raman V Kutty2, PS Sarma2
1 Assistant Director, Kerala Health Services, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India2 Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Abstract Context: In this study, we assessed the relation of possible risk factors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the survivors of December 2004 tsunami in Kanyakumari district.Materials and Methods: We identified cases (n=158) and controls (n=141) by screening a random sample of 485 tsunami survivors from June 2005 to
October 2005 using a validated tool, "Impact of events scale-revised (IES-R)," for symptoms suggestive of PTSD. Subjects whose score was equal to or above the 70 th percentile (total score 48) were cases and those who had score below or equal to 30 th percentile (total score 33) were controls. Analysis was done using statistical package for the social sciences to find the risk factors of PTSD among various pre-disaster, within-disaster and post-disaster factors.Results: Multivariate analysis showed that PTSD was related to female gender [odds ratio (OR) 6.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.26-12.39], age 40 years and above (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.23-4.63), injury to self (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.55-5.67), injury to family members (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.05-4.15), residence in urban area (area of maximum destruction) (OR 3.37, 95% CI 1.35-8.41) and death of close relatives (OR 3.83, 95% CI 1.91-7.68). Absence of fear of recurrence of tsunami (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.17-0.60), satisfaction of services received (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36-0.92) and counseling services received more than three times (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.26-0.78) had protective effect against PTSD.Conclusions: There is an association of pre-disaster, within-disaster and post-disaster factors with PTSD, which demands specific interventions at all phases of disaster, with a special focus on vulnerable groups.
Keywords: Post-traumatic stress disorder, risk factors, tsunami
Disaster Prevention and Management
ISSN: 0965-3562
Online from: 1992
Subject Area: Environmental Management/Environment
Content: Latest Issue | Latest Issue RSS | Previous Issues
Options: To add Favourites and Table of Contents Alerts please take a Emerald profile
Tsunami reconstruction and redevelopment in the Maldives: A case study of community participation and social action
Document Information:
Title: Tsunami reconstruction and redevelopment in the Maldives: A case study of community participation and social action
Author(s): Manoj Pardasani, (Division of Social Work, Indiana University Northwest, Gary, Indiana, USA)
Citation: Manoj Pardasani, (2006) "Tsunami reconstruction and redevelopment in the Maldives: A case study of community participation and social action", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 15 Iss: 1, pp.79 – 91
Keywords: Case studies, Disasters, Maldives, Tidal waves
Article type:
Case study
DOI: 10.1108/09653560610654257 (Permanent URL)
Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address the significance of trans-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary collaboration, and local community participation in redevelopment efforts.
Design/methodology/approach – In order to illustrate this model of redevelopment, the rebuilding efforts in Maldives in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, are presented as a case study. The efforts of the Government of Maldives and several NGOs are explored and critiqued, and a novel model for redevelopment is conceptualized. The paper utilizes a comprehensive review of literature, news articles, press releases and structured interviews to gather information and provide a framework for reconstruction and redevelopment plan in Maldives.
Findings – When communities are impacted by natural
disasters or developmental challenges, workers from various disciplines are brought together to assist in social reconstruction. Interdisciplinary collaboration and community involvement are key to fostering significant and sustainable changes in under-developed communities. The Government of Maldives has set up the National Disaster Management Center to coordinate such transdiciplinary efforts and services. The current redevelopment plan is presented and a model for trans-disciplinary collaboration is proposed by the author.
Practical implications – While immediate attention must be paid to restoring basic living conditions and re-establishing local infra-structure, long-term efforts must focus on capacity building, increased resilience, disaster management and community empowerment. In the aftermath of the devastating tsunami, many communities are in need of coordinated and well planned models of redevelopment to ensure sustainable change and meaningful recovery.
Originality/value – This paper proposes an innovative, participatory model of redevelopment that can be adapted to other communities devastated by natural disasters.
Somatic Experiencing Treatment With Tsunami Survivors in Thailand: Broadening the Scope of Early Intervention
1. M. Laurie Leitch 1. Foundation for Human Enrichment, Niwot, Colorado,
[email protected] Abstract
This exploratory study examines the treatment effects of brief (1 to 2 sessions) Somatic Experiencing with 53 adult and child survivors of the 2004 tsunami in Thailand. Somatic Experiencing's early-intervention model, now called Trauma First Aide, was provided 1 month after the tsunami. Survivor
assessments were done pretreatment, immediately posttreatment, 3 to 5 days posttreatment, and at the 1-year follow-up. Results indicate that immediately following treatment, 67% of participants had partial to complete improvement in reported symptoms and 95% had complete or partial improvement in observed symptoms. At the 1-year follow-up, 90% of participants had complete or partial improvement in reported symptoms, and 96% had complete or partial improvement in initially observed symptoms. Given the small sample size and lack of an equivalent comparison group, results must be interpreted with caution. Nonetheless, the results suggest that integrative mind—body interventions have promise in disaster treatment.
ordinated by Swayam Shikshan Prayog, Indiahttp://www.disasterwatch.net
Articles
Survey of the socio-economic situation of waterway workers of the municipality of
Coari - AM Author: Marcelo Lasmar dos Santos ; John Barreto
Ramires ; Aelivone da Silva Guimarães ; Rosana Veronique Bacelar Barbosa ; Tânia Valéria de
Oliveira Custódio Journal: Saúde & Transformação Social Year: 2011 Vol: 1 Issue: 2 Pages/record
No.: 79-83
Abstract
Title: Survey of the socio-economic situation of waterway workers of
the municipality of Coari – AM
Author: Marcelo Lasmar dos Santos ; John Barreto Ramires ; Aelivone da
Silva Guimarães ; Rosana Veronique Bacelar Barbosa ; Tânia
Valéria de Oliveira Custódio
Abstract: The Amazon region is characterized by having a large fluvial network where cargo and passengers are transported by
boat. The aim of this study was to describe the socio-economic
profile of the waterway workers of Coari-AM. This was a quantitative
and qualitative study. Data collection was conducted from August 2007 to June 2008 by applying a semi-structured questionnaire. The research project was approved by the
research ethics committee of the Federal University of Amazonas, Protocol nº 064/07. The sample was composed of a total of 194
waterway workers, 152 male and 42 female. Most of the workers
were between 18 and 27 years of age (n=66), single (n=110).
Regarding workload, 81 individuals worked up to 16 hours per day which corresponds to an
exhaustive workload and, depending on their role on the vessel, risks to their general
health. Therefore this research showed that the waterway worker
has an exhaustive workload, often surpassing 16h/d, and is young
and poorly educated, a fact that is reflected in the low wages. It is
noteworthy that this employment is offered on an informal basis. Something that drew attention was the fact that the majority were unmarried, a situation
resulting from the instability of their schedules and the short amount of time they spend on
land.
Journal: Saúde & Transformação Social
Issn: 21787085
EIssn:
Year: 2011
Volume: 1
Issue: 2
pages/rec.No: 79-83
Keywords Occupational Health ; Occupational Groups ; Health
Profile
Description of the new member states transport system in an era of convergence: Development of an indicator system Author: Gavanas Nikolaos ; Pitsiava Magda Journal: Spatium Year: 2011 Vol: 2011 Issue: 24 Pages/record No.: 37-44
Title: Description of the new member states transport system in an era of
convergence: Development of an indicator system
Author: Gavanas Nikolaos ; Pitsiava Magda
Abstract: The recent enlargement of the European Union (EU) towards East Europe and the Balkans provides a
common policy framework towards the promotion of socio-economic
convergence of the 12 new member-states to the EU emphasizing the role of the transportation system. A system of indicators is developed in this paper in
order to describe the new member-states’ transportation system in relation
to the area’s socio-economic characteristics by comparing them to the transportation and socio-economic
profile of the 15 pre-enlargement member-states. The analysis indicates relatively low levels of mobility for the study area combined with social and
economic disparities. It also highlights a series of prospects that could contribute decisively towards the achievement of socio-economic convergence. Based on
the experience gained by the development and application of the
indicator system, the paper concludes with a series of propositions in order to
enhance its contribution for the description of the features and the
assessment of the impacts from the development of the new member-
states’ transport system.
Journal: Spatium
Issn: 1450569X
EIssn:
Year: 2011
Volume: 2011
Issue: 24
pages/rec.No: 37-44
Keywords transportation ; system of indicators ; European enlargement ; spatial
integration ; socio-economic convergence
Abstract
Title: Sistema de cotas: uma perspectiva de análise a
partir do caso da Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy
Ribeiro Racial quota system: an analysis of
the case of the “Universidade Estadual
do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro”
Author: Ludmila Gonçalves da
Matta
Abstract: Este trabalho tem por objetivo oferecer uma introdução à discussão sobre políticas de ação afirmativa e condição
socioeconômica a partir da abordagem do caso
específico da implementação da
política de cotas para estudantes negros ou
pardos na Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy
Ribeiro (UENF). Neste trabalho, além da discussão teórica,
realizamos um trabalho de pesquisa em que
traçamos o perfil socioeconômico dos alunos beneficiados
pelas cotas para negros e pardos, o qual foi
analisado em termos comparativos com um
estudo realizado na Universidade Federal
Fluminense (UFF).
This paper aims to provide an introduction
to the discussion of affirmative action
policies and socioeconomic
conditions based on the case of the
implementation of quotas for black and
mulatto students at the Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF). Besides
the theoretical discussion, the work
presents the research project in wich we mapped the socio-economic profile of
students who benefited from the quota system,
and a comparative analysis with a similar study conducted at the
University Federal Fluminense (UFF).
Journal: Vértices
Issn: 14152843
EIssn: 18092667
Year: 2010
Volume: 12
Issue: 3
pages/rec.No: 107-124
Keywords Cotas ; Desigualdades ; Discriminação
Title: Socio-Economic Profile and Quality of Life of Selected Oraon Tribal Living in and
Around Sambalpur Town, Orissa
Author: Braja Kishori Mishra ; P. Beck
Abstract: The present research study elucidates some aspects of Quality of Life of Oraon, Sambalpur
town of Orissa. Oraon is one of the most primitive tribals of Eastern India. A sum of 120
households comprising 552 individuals (60 native families of Charbhati and 60 migrant
families living in and around Sambalpur town) of Sambalpur District, Orissa was selected
purposely and interviewed through the help of a pretested structured scheduled for collecting relevant information on socio-economic and on various indicators of quality of life. The major findings reveal that the socio-economic and overall quality of life of natives, is far from
satisfactory as the natives are very poor and they have poor educational status, poor
sanitary and housing facilities, less possession of asset and vehicle, deficient food intake, poor fuel and energy availability and low per capita
income. Thus, there is an urgent need to launch income generating, educational and health awareness programmes as well as to make them aware and help them, grab the
opportunities provided by the government and non government organisations to improve the
status of the tribals.
Journal: Current Research Journal of Social Science
Issn: 20413238
EIssn: 20413246
Year: 2010
Volume: 2Issue: 6
pages/rec.No: 340-349
Keywords Oraon tribe ; quality of life ; sambalpur ; socio-ecological
Title: Socio-Economic Status of Kaman Vocational Higher School Student, Ahi
Evran University
Author: Şenay Sezgin NARTGÜN ; Engin YÜKSEL
Abstract: The fundamental characteristics of the inputs of the education system which
would execute production, adapt to the scientific and technological innovations,
and raise skilled and qualified individuals who are required for business life should be known.
Therefore, the aim of this study is to reveal the profiles of students at
vocational high schools which is one of the main components of higher
education system. This study is a socio-economic profile study which is a
horizontal social sciences research. The purpose of the data collected in the research is two fold. While first is to
introduce the results of the micro and study, the second is to reveal the data that may be an issue for many vertical
studies. Accommodating the very limited analysis of the data, the very general profile is presented. To the
research; 49.31% of the students graduated from college. The percentage
of the students whose family live in downtown is 55.17%, 55,17 % of the students’ family live in city, whose
family have social security is 85.17%, who has scholarship is 55.86%, who
have part-time job is 23.10%, and who have his/her own car is 6.92%. This
study is a resource for implementing contemporary and modern education at Ahi Evran University Kaman Vocational High School. In addition, this study is a
database of the students for the administrators of the high school.
Journal: Journal of Kirsehir Education Faculty
Issn: 13025007
EIssn:
Year: 2009
Volume: 10
Issue: 2
pages/rec.No: 1-18
Keywords Vocational high school ; Socio-economic status ; Student profile ; Economic
profile
Abstract
Title: Influences of gentrification on identity shift of an urban fragment: A case study
Author: Nedučin Dejana ; Carić Olga ; Kubet Vladimir
Abstract: This paper discusses the process of gentrification, researched through a perspective of its
positive and negative aspects. It underlines the importance of
reasonable proportioning, sensible structuring and long-
term planning of transformation of urban spaces, which
contributes to an upgrade of living conditions and qualitative
advancement of social consciousness and development of needs of the local inhabitants,
regardless of their socio-economic profile. Despite not perceiving
gentrification as an a priori negative process, influences of
alterations of urban tissue carried out through radical and narrowly
interpreted modifications of their character may cause undesired changes in the perception and
use of the space and were analyzed as well. A case study of the gentrification of Grbavica, an
urban fragment in Novi Sad, Serbia, is presented. The goal of
this research was to critically valorize the over-all
transformation of the aforementioned fragment, taking into account architectural, urban,
social, cultural, economic and other facets.
Journal: Spatium
Issn: 1450569X
EIssn:
Year: 2009
Volume: 2009
Issue: 21
pages/rec.No: 66-75
Keywords gentrification ; urban transformation ; socio-economic
impact ; identity
Title: Survey of socio-economic profile of p seen at the dental clinic of University das Cruzes and
of the treatment to w were submitted to: endodontic clinic
Author: Maria Renata Giazzi NASSRI ; Andreza Silvestre da SILVA ; André Tetsuhiro YOSHIDA
Abstract: Introduction:In order to minimize the population oral health problemsis essential the consistent collection of information about the socio-economic situation and oral condition, raising the knowledge base thatwill lead the
action, research and planning for better care. Objective:This article aimed to evaluate the
socio-economic profile of patients seen at the endodontic clinic of UMC and its correlation
with endodontic diseases.Material and methods: It was proposed a questionnaire to
collect data through medical records of patients seen at the Endodontic Clinic of
UMC.The study analyzed medical records of 70 patients,most of them female adult with age ranging from 22 to 69 years.Results:Most of
the people attending the clinic of UMC has low-income, and it has been found that the most frequent cause of the endodontic problems is dental caries, followed by trauma.The largest
number of diagnoses pointed to pulpal necrosis as a cause of endodontic
involvement.Conclusion: It was concluded that the socio-economic profile of patients
attending the clinic is of classes D and C (according to IBGE),and the leading cause of
demand for endodontic treatment is pain.
Journal: Revista Sul-brasiliera de Odontologia
Issn: 18067727
EIssn: 19845685
Year: 2009
Volume: 6
Issue: 3
pages/rec.No: 272-278
Keywords Endodontics ; epidemiology ; socio-economic profile ; oral health.
Title: Corporate Social Responsibility: A Case Study on Quality of Life of People Around Bargarh Cement
Works of Orissa (India)
Author: P.C. Mishra
Abstract: A detailed field survey was undertaken in 20 villages within 05 Km’s radius of Bargarh CementWorks to assess the socio-economy profile, health and
nutrition status and quality of life of people in order toassess the contribution of BCW on their
responsibility towards the community. The survey was organized tocollect
information on socio-economic variables at the village level from census data of the government as wellas household
level data through questionnaire method. The study focused primarily
the village level analysisand variations across social groups as well covering three aspects viz., Socio-economic profile of the regionand the people,
health status of people and assessment of Quality of life of the people and the villages. Asregards the socio-economic profile the study attempts to present
village wise analysis of demographiccharacteristics, caste
distribution, occupational structure, availability of social amenities on the basis ofsecondary data. Village-wise
malnutrition status in terms of weight for age and Body Mass Index of the samplebelonging to < 5 years, 5-16
years and >16 years of age were calculated. When scores were assigned on percent of normal population at each
age-group in each village, Patikarpali, Chandipali Halanda and
Deultundascored more than 80%, Gudesira, Turunga, Baulsimgha,
Haldipali, Nuagudesira scored between 60-80% andrest <60%. The villages like B isalpali, Tukurla Ghupali, Khaliapali,
Murumkel, Ambapali, Deogaon, Bardol,Padhanpali, Katapali, Piplipali requires immediate intervention to meet their nutritional requirements throughawareness campaign and
training. Prevalence of higher proportion of normal children in almost all
villagesmight be attributed to longer duration of breast feeding in the
locality. In all the age groups, proportion offemales with malnutrition
has been more than the males. The percentage of females with normal
nutritionalstatus were 9, 14 and 76.3 % in 0-5, >5-16 and >16 years category
respectively in comparison to 20.5, 29.9 and76.3% in male category. Table 32 reveals that around 21% from male child category (0-<5 yrs) and 30%
fromage-group of >5-16 yrs were normal in nutritional status. The
percentage of norm al female children w ere stillless, i.e only 9% and 14 %
respectively. The children suffering from severe malnutrition was 25% in the
agegroupof >5-16 years where as it was 9.7% in 0-<5 yrs age-group. Less proportion of children belonging
tomalnourished group (Fig. 2) may be due to prolonged breast-feeding practices prevalent in the area. A slightlyhigher proportion of the
population belonging to age –group 5-16 years showed poor nutritional status (severemalnutrition) in comparison to <5 years as well as >16 years. This
perhaps indicates that this section of peoplewas not able to meet the
nutritional needs as per the requirement for the growing period. On the basis of thevalue function based on
14 indicators which also include the socio-economic profile , the QOL (Quality of LifeIndex) of different
households were computed for the different villages . It is observed that for
the over allsample households the quality of index stands at 4.19, which is
considered to be “Average” in the valuefunction. Village- wise it is noticed that the villages with slightly improved
position were Gudesira, Turunga,Deogaon, Bardol, Katapali,
Chandipali and Nuagudesira, where the status is considered “Fair”. On the
otherhand villages which witness low
est quality of life and recorded as “Poor” were Bisalpali, Piplipali,
Tukurlaand Halanda. Rest of the 9 villages are considered having
“Average” quality of life. Highest quality index wasregistered by general caste
followed by OBC and the lowest index is noted for SC followed by ST.
Howeveronly general caste recorded a “fair” quality of life compared to all other groups identified as having
“Average”quality of life.Occupation wise it is noticed that highest index was registered by service class followed bybusiness and household industry (with a “fair” quality of life) and the
lowest was noted in case of personsdependent on forestry (with a “poor” quality of life) followed by non-
agricultural labour, artisans andagricultural labour, with “A verage” quality of life. Cultivators were found to be having a “A verage” qualityof life as
w ell.
Journal: Current Research Journal of Social Science
Issn: 20413238
EIssn: 20413246
Year: 2009
Volume: 1
Issue: 3
pages/rec.No: 93-110
Keywords Cement industry ; people ; socio-ecological ; health and nutritional status
and quality of life
Title: Empreendimentos imobiliários privados no bairro de São José: impulsos para uma nova
funcionalidade do bairro e perfil sócio-econômico da população residente. /Private
real estate projects in San José, Recife: impulses for a new feature in the neighborhood
and socio-economic profile of the resident population./Emprendimientos inmobiliarios privados en el barrio de San José, Recife:
impulsos para una nueva funcionalidad, y perfil sócio-económico de la población residente.
Author: Felix Carvalho, Andreza Tacyana
Abstract: O Recife cidade secular, detentora de importante valor histórico e cultural, abriga em seu território, diversos equipamentos e focos de manifestações culturais além de abrigar
também edificações contemporâneas, que dão novos valores e significados à sua área. Em panorama a esta relação é que se inicia esta discussão e análise sobre as implicações da relação entre o antigo e o novo; a renovação
urbana vista como desconfiguração e a revitalização como instrumento de novas
funcionalidades ao edificado já existente, as intervenções urbanas x melhorias das relações
entre o espaço construído e cidadão, fato comumente ocorrido no espaço urbano, e que nesta ocasião se apresenta no recorte espacial
do bairro de São José – Recife – PE. / The
secular city of Recife has an important cultural and historical value, houses several facilities and areas of cultural events that have their story. Parallel to these monuments, the city
also hosts contemporary buildings that give it new values and meaning. In view of this
scenario is being debated and discussed the implications of the relationship between old
and new; de - configuration as urban renewal, and revitalization as a tool providing new features for existing buildings. It seeks to encourage debate and reflection on urban
interventions to improve relations between the citizen and built. Presents the space in the district of São José - Recife - PE. / La ciudad secular de Recife tiene un importante valor cultural e histórico; alberga instalaciones y áreas de eventos culturales que cuentan su
historia. Paralelamente a estos monumentos, la ciudad también alberga edificios
contemporáneos que le aportan nuevos valores y sentido. En vista de este panorama es que se
debate y analiza las implicaciones de la relación entre lo antiguo y lo nuevo; la
renovación urbana como deconfiguración, y la revitalización como un instrumento aportando
nuevas funcionalidades para los edificios existentes. Se intenta fomentar un debate y
reflexión sobre las intervenciones urbanas para mejorar las relaciones entre el ciudadano y lo construido. Se presenta el caso del distrito de
São José - Recife - PE.
Journal: Revista de Urbanismo
Issn: 07175051
EIssn:
Year: 2009
Volume: 11
Issue: 21
pages/rec.No:
Keywords DESCONFIGURAÇÃO ; PROMOTORES IMOBILIÁRIOS ; INTERVENÇÕES URBANAS ; RENOVAÇÃO URBANA E REVALORIZAÇÃO
URBANA. / DE-CONFIGURATION ; PROPERTY DEVELOPERS ; URBAN INTERVENTIONS ;
URBAN RENEWAL AND URBAN UPGRADING./ DE-CONFIGURACIÓN URBANA ; PROMOTORES INMOBILIARIOS PRIVADOS ; INTERVENCIONES
URBANAS ; RENOVACIÓN URBANA Y MEJORAMIENTO URBANO.
Transitioning towards sustainable rural electrification in developing countries: a case study of Luangwa district in ZambiaUniversity essay from Blekinge Tekniska Högskola/Sektionen för Teknik (TEK)
Author: Gerald Muchu; Benny Sindowe; Pavan Vummadi; [2005]
Keywords: hållbar utveckling; sustainability - energy; sustainability - general; sustainability - strategic planning; transition; sustainable technologies; rural areas; developing countries;
Abstract: The purpose of this research is to examine how rural areas in developing countries can strategically transit
towards sustainable electricity generation and how this transition can help promote strategic progress towards sustainable rural communities. Luangwa district in Zambia is studied as a special case but an approach that is generic for rural areas in developing countries is strived for. Based on a literature review of existing and potentially sustainable technologies for electricity generation, other case studies, and a survey of local conditions, this study proposes Small Scale Hydro and Solar as appropriate for Luangwa district. A strategic implementation plan is suggested. Some barriers to the transition and possible ways of overcoming them are pointed out, e.g., through technical and public policy measures. Potential economic, socio-political and environmental benefits of this transition are highlighted. The study concludes that with a well structured vision of a sustainable rural electrification, it is possible to strategically implement existing technologies based on renewable energy sources. However, the type of technologies that are suitable for different areas will differ considerably due to different local conditions, such as geography and climate.
SELF-CARE IN TYPE 2 DIABETES : A Systematic Literature Review on Factors Contributing to Self-Care among Type 2Diabetes Mellitus Patients.University essay from Linnéuniversitetet/Institutionen för hälso- och vårdvetenskap, HV
Author: Mehammedsrage Abrahim; [2011]
Keywords: Blood glucose self-monitoring; self-administration; Self-care; self-medication; Type 2 Diabetes.;
Abstract:
Background: Self-care is a multi-dimensional concept and has different definitions. Amongthe definitions, Orem’s definition of self-care is more consistent. Orem (1995) argues that,self-care is a personal activity to take care and
maintain of own self health and illness andprevention of disease related complications.
Aim: The aim of the paper was to investigate the factors that contribute to self-care behavioramong patients with Type 2 DM as argued in the literature.
Method: data was collected from the following electronic databases: CINAHL, PubMed,LibHub, SweMed and Google Scholar-to find full texts. Data was analyzed through CriticalAppraisal Skill Programme. To ensure validity and reliability the author were blinded toreduce study bias and articles were selected according their quality.
Result: 31 relevant studies were included in the review, among the major findings of the studywere; Age, Social support/network, high income level, high educational attainment and longType 2 DM diagnosis history had a positive predictor in Type 2 DM patients self-carecontributing factors.
Conclusion: To improve a Type 2 DM patients self-care activities the present study concludedthat Demographic, Socio-Economic and Social support factors are among the positivecontributors in patients of Type 2 DM successful Self-Care activities.
Key words; Blood glucose self-monitoring, self-administration, Self-care, self-medication,Type 2 Diabetes.
Expectations abound: family obligations and remittance flow amongst Cameroonian “bushfallers” in Sweden. A gender insightUniversity essay from Lunds universitet/Master of Science in Development Studies
Author: Christina Atekmangoh; [2011]
Keywords: remittances; bushfalling; family expectations;
gender; legality; Social Sciences;
Abstract: In Cameroon, there is a tradition for heterosexual family system inherent in a patriarchal order of things; accordingly, this study shed light on how gender pervades into, and ‘force’ migrants to remit in order to fulfill family expectations at the country of origin. Contemporary academic studies and reports from various organizations have highlighted the active role of women as migrants and remitters. There is a growing stream of literature which demonstrates that men and women’s experiences of migration are gendered; accordingly, their remittance behavior is also gendered. However, an understanding of how socio-cultural (structural level) forces affects migrants remittances requires a comprehensive analysis in the context of the complexity inherent in contemporary international mobility and migrants transfers; that is, it requires an emphasis on how the combined effects of gender, legality and to some extent class shape remittance flow. This is because the market (employers and employer organizations/institutions), the state, and the family as socio-cultural and economic institutions that shapes migration and remittances are gendered; this genderedness is of a deterministic nature in influencing how and why migrants remit and to whom.
This study employs a qualitative research method, it departs from the premise that international migration through remittances is a way to find work and support families in many developing countries including Cameroon where income opportunities are hard to come by. Through a review of related literature and theoretical framework, the phenomenon of transcontinental migration known in Cameroon as bushfalling are explored, the gender dynamics in migrants’ remittances behavior have also been looked at. The results of this study show that non-economic factors such as legality, gender, and class influence remittances flow. Most importantly, this study shows that everything being equal, being in a position to remit is sometimes a matter of luck, women remit more than men, documented migrants are more likely to remit more than undocumented migrants, and migrants’ class position in
country of departure also affects remittance flow. I argued that socio-cultural variables such as migrant rank position within the family, photos, gestures influence family expectations for remittances.
La Questione Meridionale. Social capital as a tool to understand the development disparity between the North and the South of ItalyUniversity essay from Blekinge Tekniska Högskola/DSN
Author: Gabriele Torre; [2010]
Keywords: fysisk planering; spatial planning - regional planning; spatial planning - social planning; samhällsvetenskap; social sciences - sociology; social capital; questione meridionale; south italy; north italy; regional economic development;
Abstract: Since Italian unification, Southern Italy has lagged behind with respect to the North and for this reason it has been subsidized for a long time, by the Italian government before and the EU later. The fact that despite a huge amount of subsidies the South has not been able to reduce the development gap with the North has urged scholars to focus their attention on the capability of the society to improve its own situation which means to take into consideration sociological aspects with respect to economic development. The concept of social capital that refers to the types of relations between individuals, could represent one explanatory factor of the Southern backward situation. The purpose of this study is to understand the relationships between social capital and socio-economic disparities among the Northern and Southern regions of Italy. Firstly, a historical description of the Southern situational is described to point out the long duration of the issue. Secondly a recent economic description of the chosen regions has been made to show the still significant socio-economic disparities between the North and the South. Thirdly a literature review about the concept of social capital has been made in order to personally define
the concept and choose useful indicators for the purpose of the thesis. Finally, according to the author’s interpretation, the social capital situation of the chosen regions has been pointed out and considerations about it in respect with the economic development have been made. According to the study, the two chosen regions represent different degrees of social capital. These seem to affect somehow the diverse economic development of the North and the South
.
Nanotechnology and Sustainability : A Critical Review of Current Trendsand Future DevelopmentsUniversity essay from KTH/Industriell ekologi
Author: Amir Sattari; [2009]
Keywords: nanoscience; nanotechnology; sustainability;
Abstract:
This report considers both contributions and adverse consequences, uncertainties, and unknownrelationships that are potentially involved in the advances of techno-economic and humanisticinterests towards the advances in Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies (N&N). Because of thedistinctive physical and chemical properties of materials at nanoscales, which have not beenunderstood deeply yet, besides the huge potentials to benefit many areas of research andapplication, it is recognized that application of N&N may raise new ecological, health and safety,socio-economic, and regulatory challenges that will require scientific, techno-economic, andsocietal considerations. A comprehensive literature survey of peer reviewed journals, books, andother authoritative sources indicate that there have been very few studies on these fundamentalaspects and the research investments are mainly sponsored for market purposes, rather than forpure scientific structure-function discoveries or sustainability attitudes. The overarching issue ofimportance in this study is to consider the high level of uncertainties and lack of knowledge inN&N, and the great potential threats and impacts of
engineered nanoproducts that can be eitherin form of known-unknowns or even unknown-unknowns. Moreover, measures of improvementto govern N&N developments to become sustainable, including public communication, call forpure and high quality non-prescribed research on unknown characteristics of N&N, health and environmental friendliness based on a life cycle approach, and the industrial ecology approach,together with implementation of the related results in practice have been suggested.
A study of the sustainability of ICT-projects in developing countriesUniversity essay from Lunds universitet/Produktionsekonomi
Author: Carl Gunnstam; Carl-johan Nordqvist; [2009]
Keywords: ICT; Sustainability; Evaluation; Sustainable; Aid; Pilotproject.; Technology and Engineering;
Abstract: Background: Information and Communications Technology (ICT) isbelieved to contribute to the socio-economic growth ofdeveloping countries. However, many ICT-relateddevelopment projects in developing countries are short-lived,i.e., they fail to sustain.Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to study what factors influencethe sustainability of ICT-projects in developing countries.Method: The study is based on a systematic review of existingliterature on the subject, and data from interviews andobservations. A case study of an ICT-project in southernIndia is performed. All data is of qualitative type.Conclusions: A set of 14 factors that influences the sustainability isidentified. The factors are related to the various resources and
stakeholders involved in a project.
Rapid Urbanization and Housing Shortage in Africa: : The Opportunity within the Problem for EthiopiaUniversity essay from KTH/Bygg- och fastighetsekonomi
Author: Ethiopia Wondimu Robi; [2011]
Keywords: Rapid Urbanization; Housing Shortage; Ethiopia;
Abstract:
On February 2010, in a conference on the future of cities in London, United Nation‟s head of housing agency Anna Tibaijuka proclaimed that
"After HIV and Aids, the biggest threat to sustainable development in Africa is rapid and chaotic urbanisation, because it is a recipe for disaster for increased tensions and pressure" (MacLellan, 2010). It is truly unfortunate that a word like urbanization that for centuries has represented better living standards and growth is now viewed as a threat to sustainable growth and likened to an incurable disease. When people move to urban cities in search of a better life, they deserve to find something better than what they left behind and that is what justifies this research. The purpose of this paper is to find ways on how best to direct rapid urbanization in Ethiopia towards becoming a resource rather than a source of chaos. A comprehensive literature review complemented by a questionnaire survey distributed to real estate developers in Ethiopia was conducted as part of the qualitative research method adapted. The finding of the research show that Ethiopia has one of the highest proportions of urban population living in slums and housing deficit is at an all-time high. The government has introduced a number of policies and is trying to provide housing for low-income people while the private sector in the real estate industry is mainly meeting the needs of high-income people. The study found that this division in task will eventually lead to the segregation of the city into rich and poor
neighborhoods that will ultimately make matters worse. The study also showed that with the adaption of policies that allow for the integration and collaboration of the government, the private sector and the people; opportunities of creating a conducive living environment for all income groups exist.
Disasters, formal education and adaptive capacity - Does people’s level of formal education influence their risk from climate-related disasters? A case study of an informal settlement in Rio de JaneiroUniversity essay from Lunds universitet/Brandteknik och riskhantering
Author: Ebba Brink; [2010]
Keywords: adaptive capacity; Adaptation; Brazil; climate change; coping capacity; disaster risk; disasters; favelas; income; informal settlements; landslide; Latin America; risk reduction; Rocinha; formal education; flood; Technology and Engineering;
Abstract: With a worldwide increase in climate-related disasters and the global temperature on the rise, the effects of climate change are already being felt. Among those most at risk are the poor in developing countries, often living in informal settlements or „slums‟. In order to reduce associated risks and strengthen people‟s own coping capacities, there is an urgent need for knowledge about the factors that determine people‟s capacity to cope with and adapt to adverse climate conditions.This study examines the influence of formal education, as opposed to income, in determining the adaptive capacity for the residents of Rocinha, an informal settlement in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where floods and landslides are recurrent. The research thereby explores the potential of promoting formal education as a way to increase people‟s capacity to cope with adverse climate effects. The information for the study was gathered through observations, interviews with residents and key informants in Rocinha, and literature review. Both statistical and qualitative analyses have been made of the data gathered.
The statistical analysis investigates how formal education influences people‟s level of risk, including their coping strategies and the institutional support they receive. In the qualitative analysis, the direct and secondary effects that education may have on risk and people‟s adaptive capacity are explored.The research results indicate that formal education has a more significant role in determining people‟s level of risk and their coping capacities than what has hitherto been acknowledged. In fact, the study identified the importance of people‟s level of education for their awareness and understanding of existing risks. It was further revealed that in the study area, formal education plays a more determinant role for women than for men to their capacity to cope with disasters. In addition, it became obvious how formal education can have a mitigating effect on factors such as poor health, teenage pregnancy, littering, substance abuse, organised drug trade and illegitimate growth of the settlement – all of which were found to exacerbate people‟s level of risk.On this basis, it is concluded that promoting formal education as a way to increase people‟s coping or adaptive capacities is justified, not only due to its potential influence in increasing people‟s level of income.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Year : 2012 | Volume : 54 | Issue : 1 | Page : 48-53
Risk factors of post-traumatic stress disorder in tsunami survivors ofKanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India
TT Pyari1, Raman V Kutty2, PS Sarma21 Assistant Director, Kerala Health Services, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India2 Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies, Sree Chitra TirunalInstitute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram,
Kerala, India
Correspondence Address:T T PyariTC 15/773, Palottukonam Road, Sasthamangalam P.O., Thiruvananthapuram,Trivandrum, Kerala - 695 010IndiaLogin to access the Email id
DOI: 10.4103/0019-5545.94645
Get PermissionsContext: In this study, we assessed the relation of possible riskfactors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the survivors ofDecember 2004 tsunami in Kanyakumari district. Materials and Methods:We identified cases (n=158) and controls (n=141) by screening a randomsample of 485 tsunami survivors from June 2005 to October 2005 using avalidated tool, "Impact of events scale-revised (IES-R)," for symptomssuggestive of PTSD. Subjects whose score was equal to or above the 70th percentile (total score 48) were cases and those who had scorebelow or equal to 30 th percentile (total score 33) were controls.Analysis was done using statistical package for the social sciences tofind the risk factors of PTSD among various pre-disaster,within-disaster and post-disaster factors. Results: Multivariateanalysis showed that PTSD was related to female gender [odds ratio(OR) 6.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.26-12.39], age 40 years andabove (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.23-4.63), injury to self (OR 2.97, 95% CI1.55-5.67), injury to family members (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.05-4.15),residence in urban area (area of maximum destruction) (OR 3.37, 95% CI1.35-8.41) and death of close relatives (OR 3.83, 95% CI 1.91-7.68).Absence of fear of recurrence of tsunami (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.17-0.60),satisfaction of services received (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36-0.92) andcounseling services received more than three times (OR 0.45, 95% CI0.26-0.78) had protective effect against PTSD. Conclusions: There isan association of pre-disaster, within-disaster and post-disasterfactors with PTSD, which demands specific interventions at all phasesof disaster, with a special focus on vulnerable groups.
European Psychiatry
Volume 26, Issue 7, October 2011, Pages 436–440
Use of and satisfaction with support received among survivors fromthree Scandinavian
countries after the 2004 Southeast Asian tsunami
* P.O. Michela, Corresponding author contact information, E-mailthe corresponding author, * S. Rosendalb, * L. Weisaethc, * T. Heirc
* a National Centre for Disaster Psychiatry/Akademiskasjukhuset/Uppsala University, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden * b Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Section 7421, Center for Crisisand Disaster Psychiatry/University of Copenhagen Blegdamsvej 9, 2100Copenhagen, Denmark * c Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies,Oslo University Hospital, Kirkeveien 166, Building 48, 0407 Oslo,Norway
* Received 23 June 2010. Revised 6 September 2010. Accepted 9September 2010. Available online 31 January 2011.
* http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2010.09.009, How to Cite orLink Using DOI * Cited by in Scopus (0)
* Permissions & Reprints
View full text1. Background2. Material and methods3. Results4. Discussion5. ConclusionsConflict of interest statementAcknowledgmentReferencesAbstractIntroduction
There is limited guidance regarding effective preventions forpost-disaster mental health problems and what kind of support ispreferred by disaster survivors.Aim
To describe the use of and satisfaction with support in threeScandinavian countries after the tsunami and analyzing the associationbetween support and posttraumatic stress reactions.Method
The sample comprises 6772 responders who returned to Scandinavia fromthe tsunami-struck countries of Southeast Asia in 2004.Results
Most were satisfied with informal support on site. Support fromembassies/consulates was not received well, leaving about 64% of theDanes/Norwegians and 73% of the Swedes dissatisfied. After returninghome, support from close relatives rendered highest degree ofsatisfaction. Consultation with general practitioner (GP) was reportedby 63% of Norwegians, 40% of Danes, and 16% of Swedes. Most responders(60–77%) were satisfied with their GP, although Norwegians were leastsatisfied. Using support was associated with higher levels ofposttraumatic stress symptoms.Conclusions
Informal support was used to a high degree and rendered considerablesatisfaction in all three countries, while the use of and satisfactionwith formal support varied more. Lack of satisfaction with embassiesand consulates may indicate deficiencies in the authorities’preparedness in assisting disaster stricken citizens abroad.
Natural Hazards and Earth System Science Volume 12, Issue 5, 2012, Pages 1337-1352
Mapping and historical reconstruction of the great Mexican 22 June 1932 tsunami ( Review ) Corona, N.a , 220Raḿrez-Herrera, M.T.ab a Centro de Investigaciones en Geografía Ambiental, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Méxíco, Campus Morelia, Mexicob Laboratorio de Geof [sica Ambiental, Universidad Nacional Aut[3noma de Méxíco, Campus Morelia, Mexico
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AbstractAt 07:00 h (UTC-6) on 22 June 1932, a Ms Combining double low line 6.9 earthquake shocked the coasts of Colima and Jalisco. Five minutes later a tsunami arrived at the coast. It almost completely destroyed the town of Cuyutĺn, Colima, causing the deaths of 50 people and leaving about 1200 injured. In this study, newspaper reports and technical reports are reviewed, as well as survivors' testimonials. The physical characteristics (mean sea level at the time, time of arrival, sea retreat, and inundation distribution) and the tsunami effects (number of victims, injuries, affected buildings) have been reconstructed and mapped. The interpretation of historical data allowed us to determine the intensity of the tsunami and to reveal the tsunamigenic source. This study emphasizes the relevance of historical analysis, including survivor's testimonies, in the reconstruction of tsunamis that lack instrumental data. The results of this study are relevant to paleotsunami studies and tsunami related hazard planning. © Author(s) 2012. CC Attribution 3.0 License.
ISSN: 15618633Source Type: Journal Original language: English DOI: 10.5194/nhess-12-1337-2012Document Type: Review
American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry Volume 20, Issue 5, May 2012, Pages 402-407
Psychological impact of the tsunami on elderly survivorsViswanath, B.a, 220Maroky, A.S.a, 220Math, S.B.a , 220John, J.P.a, 220Benegal, V.a, 220Hamza, A.b, 220Chaturvedi, S.K.a a Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, 560 029, Indiab Department of Psychiatric Social Work, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, India
View references (10)
AbstractObjective: The study aimed at comparing the psychiatric morbidity in geriatric versus nongeriatric (NG) adults during the initial 3 months following the December 2004 tsunami involving the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Methods: This observational study was undertaken during the relief operation of tsunami. There were 12,784 survivors sheltered across 74 relief camps with 4,684 displaced survivors in Port Blair, and 8,100 nondisplaced survivors in Car Nicobar Island. All persons who accessed mental health assistance within the camps constituted the study sample. Diagnoses were made by qualified psychiatrists using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision. There were 438 adult patients, of which 75 (17%) were geriatric (60 years or older) and 363 (83%) were NG (aged 19-59 years). Results: The geriatric sample had greater levels of adjustment disorder than NG group. The two groups differed in terms of displacement as the elderly preferred to stay in their own locality. A comparison between displaced geriatric and NG groups showed that major depression was less common in the geriatric sample. However, in the nondisplaced group, geriatric subgroup showed a higher incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder. Within the geriatric sample, there were higher levels of adjustment disorder in the nondisplaced group whereas the displaced group suffered more depressive episodes and unspecified anxiety disorders. Conclusion: Greater levels of adjustment disorder in geriatric group may indicate grief reaction and survivor guilt, especially in nondisplaced group. In addition, lower occurrences of depressive episodes in nondisplaced geriatric sample may indicate that the elderly need to be rehabilitated in their own habitats after major disasters. © 2012 American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry.
Author keywordsDisaster; Geriatric; High-risk sample; Tsunami
Indexed KeywordsEMTREE medical terms: acute stress disorder; adjustment disorder; adult; aged; anxiety disorder; article; brief psychotic disorder; comparative study; disaster; disease classification; displacement behavior; female; grief; guilt; habitat; human; incidence; India; international classification of diseases; major clinical study; major depression; male; mental health;
morbidity; observational study; panic; posttraumatic stress disorder; psychiatrist; psychological aspect; schizophrenia; survivor; tsunami
ISSN: 10647481 CODEN: AJGPESource Type: Journal Original language: English DOI: 10.1097/JGP.0b013e318246b7e9Document Type: Article
Environmental DevelopmentVolume 2, Issue 1, April 2012, Pages 73-85
Governance for sustainable reconstruction after disasters: Lessons from Nias, IndonesiaGuarnacci, U.
University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
View references (73)
AbstractDisasters create enormous pressure to provide survivors with permanent housing and normally lead to large-scale reconstruction programmes. In this respect, the concept of sustainable reconstruction has surfaced in the international arena as a successful strategy to deal with disasters, since it addresses the issue of sustainability during the recovery process. This paper focuses on Nias, an Indonesian island hit by the December 2004 tsunami and the March 2005 earthquake, and shows why and to what extent governance is key to achieving sustainable reconstruction. In analyzing these issues, the article uses evidence from field research and relies on primary data collected through questionnaires, semi-structured elite interviews and in-depth interviews. Finally, the paper draws conclusions regarding some major governance gaps that might have prevented the reconstruction process in Nias from being sustainable. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.
Author keywordsDisaster; Governance; Indonesia; Reconstruction; Sustainability
ISSN: 22114645Source Type: Journal Original language: English DOI: 10.1016/j.envdev.2012.03.010Document Type: Article
Keio Journal of Medicine Volume 61, Issue 1, March 2012, Pages 10-14
The Vision van, a mobile eye clinic, Aids relief Efforts in Tsunami-Stricken areas ( Review ) Oshima, C.R., 220Yuki, K., 220Uchida, A., 220Dogru, M., 220Koto, T., 220Ozawa, Y., 220Tsubota, K.
Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
View references (3)
AbstractIn the wake of the devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 11, our group at Keio University worked diligently to bring the Vision Van, a mobile eye clinic, from Miami, Florida, to disaster areas where medicines, eyeglasses, and indeed all other ophthalmological supplies and services, were nonexistent, thereby assisting many tsunami survivors suffering from eye problems. This act was encouraging not only to the patients and those working in the disaster-hit areas but also to ophthalmologists who wanted to use their medical specialty to assist those in need. © 2012 by The Keio Journal of Medicine.
Author keywordsDisasters; Japan; Mobile health units; Ophthalmology; Relief work
Coastal Engineering Journal Volume 54, Issue 1, March 2012, Article number 1250007
Trace survey of the 2011 Tohoku tsunami in the north of Miyagi prefecture and numerical simulation of bidirectional tsunamis in Utatsusaki peninsulaKakinuma, T.a , 220Tsujimoto, G.b , 220Yasuda, T.c4 , 220Tamada, T.d a Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-40 Korimoto, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japanb Department of Urban Engineering, Kobe City College of Technology, 8-3 Gakuenhigashi-cho, Nishi-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 651-2194, Japanc Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University, Gokasho, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japand Coastal Operation Division, Idea Consultants, Inc., 2-2-2 Hayabuchi, Tsuzuki-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 224-0025, Japan
View references (10)
AbstractThe field survey results obtained by the team of authors in the north of Miyagi Prefecture between April 1 and 6, 2011 are summarized referring to a part of the survey results by other teams of the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake Tsunami Joint Survey Group. The inundation height above sea level was measured using a laser range finder with a reflection prism. The inundation height was generally larger at bay heads, as well as promontory tips, except several points, which were sheltered by a peninsula or had a tapering area. The tsunamis reached inland far away from the sea along valleys and rivers. Not only steel frame buildings but also many reinforced concrete buildings were collapsed in Onagawa Town. According to the numerical results, the first of tsunamis from the west coast and the second of tsunamis from the east coast should come together in Utatsusaki Peninsula, which is consistent with the interviews to survivors. © 2012 World Scientific Publishing Company and Japan Society of Civil Engineers.
Geological Society Special Publication Volume 361, Issue 1, 2012, Pages 91-105
An examination of hazard communication logs and public response during the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis that impacted Hilo, HawaiiJohnston, J.B.a, 220Bird, D.K.b , 220Goff, J.R.c, 220Dudley, W.C.d 2201147399a Disaster Preparedness Solutions, Inc., Kailua, HI 96734, United Statesb Risk Frontiers, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australiac Australia-Pacific Tsunami Research Centre and Natural Hazards Research Laboratory, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, NSW, Australiad Marine Science Department, University of Hawaii, Hilo, HI 96720, United States
View references (27)
AbstractThis paper examines communication methods used to inform the vulnerable community of Hilo, Hawaii of the impending tsunamis that struck in 1946 and 1960. These tsunamis caused tragic loss of life and enormous economic damage in Hilo and along the shores of the Hawaiian Island chain. Over 12 h notice of a possible large tsunami was given in 1960 and the siren warning system sounded more than 4 h prior to the event. The government agencies knew there was a tsunami alert and the media were broadcasting warnings. However, the 1960 tsunami took the lives of 61 people in Hilo only 14 years after 96 people were killed
during the 1946 event. In order to discover why so many people perished, government agency logs recorded during the 1960 tsunami were examined and personal accounts from survivors of both the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis were analysed. Contributing to the tragic loss of life was a lack of communication between government agencies in addition to media inaccuracies and a public that was not educated in tsunami safety. Effective tsunami mitigation can only be accomplished through continual tsunami awareness education for the public, media and emergency personnel, and with accurate and timely tsunami warnings. © The Geological Society of London 2012.
Indian Journal of Psychiatry Volume 54, Issue 1, January 2012, Pages 48-53
Risk factors of post-traumatic stress disorder in tsunami survivors of Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, IndiaPyari, T.T.a , 220Kutty, R.V.b, 220Sarma, P.S.b 22011473a Kerala Health Services, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Indiab Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
View references (28)
AbstractContext: In this study, we assessed the relation of possible risk factors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the survivors of December 2004 tsunami in Kanyakumari district. Materials and Methods: We identified cases (n=158) and controls (n=141) by screening a random sample of 485 tsunami survivors from June 2005 to October 2005 using a validated tool, "Impact of events scale-revised (IES-R)," for symptoms suggestive of PTSD. Subjects whose score was equal to or above the 70 th percentile (total score 48) were cases and those who had score below or equal to 30 th percentile (total score 33) were controls. Analysis was done using statistical package for the social sciences to find the risk factors of PTSD among various pre-disaster, within-disaster and post-disaster factors. Results: Multivariate analysis showed that PTSD was related to female gender [odds ratio (OR) 6.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.26-12.39], age 40 years and above (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.23-4.63), injury to self (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.55-5.67), injury to family members (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.05-4.15), residence in urban area (area of maximum destruction) (OR 3.37, 95% CI 1.35-8.41) and death of close relatives (OR 3.83, 95% CI 1.91-7.68). Absence of fear of recurrence of tsunami (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.17-0.60), satisfaction of services received (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36-0.92) and counseling services received more than three times (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.26-0.78) had protective effect against PTSD. Conclusions: There is an association of pre-
disaster, within-disaster and post-disaster factors with PTSD, which demands specific interventions at all phases of disaster, with a special focus on vulnerable groups.
Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences
Significance of close relationships after the tsunami disaster in connection with existential health - a qualitative interpretive
study ( Article in press
) Rehnsfeldt, A.a , 220Arman, M.b 22011473a Stord/Haugesund University College, Norwayb Karolinska Institutet, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Sweden
AbstractBackground: In an existential health perspective, the potential for recovery and development through natural life circumstances provides a factor to be taken into account. Earlier research on disaster-stricken people indicates that people create their own ways of recovering and that natural caring encounters (with family or friends) imply important health factors. Aim: The aim of the study is to acquire an in-depth understanding of the significance of natural close relationships for survivors of the tsunami disaster in Southeast Asia in connection with the development of existential health and understanding of life in a long-term perspective. The sample consists of 19 persons afflicted by the 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia, both Swedish tourists and relatives at home. Data were collected from interviews recurring five times during 2006. Findings: What is evidently seen is how the ontological aspects are expressed in data in relation to the existential and relational aspects. In concrete terms, this is understood when survivors say that their lives are completely changed (an ontological turn in their understanding of life). A change also occurs in the way they relate to others (a concrete existential turn), for example, in their families. When the findings on communion as an utterance of interdependence were read comprehensively, it was seen that human encounters in the aftermath of a disaster are not only about relationships but inherently affect people's entire understanding of life both ontologically and existentially. Relationships with others and
communion become a way of understanding or defining life. To conclude, in line with the aim of the study, the data suggest that relationships and communion with other people helped the survivors of the tsunami to discover a new understanding of life. It is also clear that natural encounters have had great importance for progress in existential health. 2012 The Authors. Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences © 2012 Nordic College of Caring Science.
Journal of Medical Case Reports Volume 5, 2011, Article number 526
Multiple Scedosporium apiospermum abscesses in a woman survivor of a tsunami in northeastern Japan: A case reportNakamura, Y.a , 220Utsumi, Y.a , 220Suzuki, N.a , 220Nakajima, Y.a , 220Murata, O.a4 , 220Sasaki, N.a , 220Nitanai, H.a , 220Nagashima, H.b7 , 220Miyamoto, S.b , 220Yaegashi, J.c3
, 220Hatakeyama, T.c , 220Shibano, Y.c , 220Yarita, K.d , 220Kamei, K.d , 220Nakadate, T.e , 220Endo, S.e , 220Terayama, Y.f , 220Yamauchi, K.a a Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Allergy, and Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, 0208505, Japanb Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Iwate Prefectural Miyako Hospital, 1-11-26 Sakikuwagasaki, Miyako, 0270096, Japanc Department of Internal Medicine, Saiseikai Iwaizumi Hospital, 19-1 Nakaya, Iwaizumi aza, Iwaizumi town, Shimoheigun, 0270501, Japand Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba, 2608673, Japane Department of Critical Care Medicine, Critical Care and Emergency Center, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, 0208505, Japanf Division of Neurology and Gerontology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University School of Medicine, 19-1 Uchimaru, Morioka, 0208505, Japan
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AbstractIntroduction. Scedosporium apiospermum is increasingly recognized as a cause of localized and disseminated mycotic infections in near-drowning victims. Case presentation. We report the case of a 59-year-old Japanese woman who was a survivor of a tsunamiin northeastern Japan and who had lung and brain abscesses caused by S. apiospermum. Initially, an aspergillus infection was suspected, so she was treated with micafungin. However, computed tomography scans of her chest revealed lung abscesses, and magnetic resonance images demonstrated multiple abscesses in her brain. S. apiospermum was cultured from her bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and antimycotic therapy with voriconazole was initiated. Since
she developed an increase in the frequency of premature ventricular contractions, an adverse drug reaction to the voriconazole was suspected. She was started on a treatment of a combination of low-dose voriconazole and liposomal 0amphotericin B. After combination therapy, further computed tomography scans of the chest and magnetic resonance images of her brain showed a demarcation of abscesses. Conclusions: Voriconazole appeared to have a successful record in treating scedosporiosis after a near drowning but, owing to several adverse effects, may possibly not be recommended. Thus, a combination treatment of low-dose voriconazole and liposomal 0amphotericin B may be a safe and effective treatment for an S. apiospermum infection. Even though a diagnosis of scedosporiosis may be difficult, a fast and correct etiological diagnosis could improve the patient's chance of recovery in any case. © 2011Nakamura et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
European Psychiatry Volume 26, Issue 7, October 2011, Pages 436-440
Use of and satisfaction with support received among survivors from three Scandinavian countries after the 2004 Southeast Asian tsunamiMichel, P.O.a , 220Rosendal, S.b, 220Weisaeth, L.c, 220Heir, T.c 220114734a National Centre for Disaster Psychiatry, Akademiska sjukhuset, Uppsala University, 75185 Uppsala, Swedenb Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Center for Crisis and Disaster Psychiatry, University of Copenhagen, Section 7421, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmarkc Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo University Hospital, Kirkeveien 166, Building 48, 0407 Oslo, Norway
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AbstractIntroduction: There is limited guidance regarding effective preventions for post-disaster mental health problems and what kind of support is preferred by disaster survivors. Aim: To describe the use of and satisfaction with support in three Scandinavian countries after the tsunami and analyzing the association between support and posttraumatic stress reactions. Method: The sample comprises 6772 responders who returned to Scandinavia from the tsunami-struck countries of Southeast Asia in 2004. Results: Most were satisfied with informal support on site. Support from embassies/consulates was not received well, leaving about 64% of the Danes/Norwegians and 73% of the Swedes dissatisfied. After returning home, support from close relatives rendered highest degree of satisfaction. Consultation with general practitioner (GP) was reported by 63% of Norwegians, 40% of Danes, and 16% of Swedes. Most responders (60-77%) were satisfied with their GP, although Norwegians were least satisfied. Using support was associated with higher levels of posttraumatic stress
symptoms. Conclusions: Informal support was used to a high degree and rendered considerable satisfaction in all three countries, while the use of and satisfaction with formal support varied more. Lack of satisfaction with embassies and consulates may indicate deficiencies in the authorities' preparedness in assisting disaster stricken citizens abroad. © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS.
Natural Hazards Volume 58, Issue 3, September 2011, Pages 1029-1055
Modeling of inundation dynamics on Banda Aceh, Indonesia during the great Sumatra tsunamis December 26, 2004Prasetya, G.a , 220Borrero, J.b, 220de Lange, W.a, 220Black, K.b, 220Healy, T.a 22011473a Coastal Marine Group, Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealandb ASR Ltd, Marine Consulting and Research, Raglan, New Zealand
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AbstractThe tsunami inundation flows on Banda Aceh, Indonesia reached 5 km inland during the December 26, 2004, event and devastated most of the houses, buildings, and infrastructure along the coast and killed more than 167,000 people. The overland flows from the northwest coast and the west coast collided at Lampisang village approximately 3.7 km from Ulee Lheue (northwest coast) and 6.8 km from Lhok Nga (west coast) as reported by survivors. Inundation modeling based on the nonlinear shallow-water wave equations reproduces the inundation pattern and demonstrates a colliding of the overland flows. The model suggests that wave characteristics on the northwest coast of Banda Aceh were different from those on the waves that impacted upon the west coast. The areas, which experienced higher inundation levels, did not always experience greatest overland flow speeds, and the damage areas mostly coincide with the flow speed distribution rather than the runup and inundation depth. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.
Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology Volume 46, Issue 10, October 2011, Pages 1027-1032
Changes in religious beliefs and the relation of religiosity to posttraumatic stress and life satisfaction after a natural disasterHussain, A.ab , 220Weisaeth, L.b, 220Heir, T.a 220114735a Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Kirkeveien 166, 0407 Oslo, Norwayb Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
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AbstractObjective To study changes in religious beliefs and predictors of such changes in a community sample exposed to a natural disaster, and to investigate whether religiosity was linked to post-disaster mental distress or life satisfaction. Methods An adult population of 1,180 Norwegian tourists who experienced the 2004 tsunami was surveyed by a postal questionnaire 2 years after the disaster. Data included religiosity, disaster exposure, general psychopathology, posttraumatic stress and life satisfaction. Results Among the respondents, 8% reported strengthening and 5% reported weakening of their religious beliefs. Strengthening was associated with pre-tsunami mental health problems (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.12-2.95) and posttraumatic stress (OR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.22-2.16). Weakening was associated with younger age (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96-1.00) and posttraumatic stress (OR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.23-2.41). Two years after the tsunami, 11% of the sample considered themselves to be positively religious. There were no significant differences in posttraumatic stress, general psychopathology or life satisfaction between religious and non-religious groups. Conclusions Religion did not play an important role in the lives of Norwegian tsunami survivors in general. Respondents who had the greatest disaster exposure were more likely to report changes in religious beliefs in both directions. Religious beliefs did not prevent post-disaster long-term mental distress, and religiosity was not related to higher levels of life satisfaction. © The Author(s) 2010.
Journal of Psychosomatic Research Volume 71, Issue 3, September 2011, Pages 180-187
Physical symptoms 14 months after a natural disaster in individuals with or without injury are associated with different types of exposureKeskinen-Rosenqvist, R. , 220Michélsen, H., 220Schulman, A., 220Wahlström, L. 22011473
Center for Family and Community Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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AbstractTo investigate whether different types of exposure to the 2004 tsunami were associated with physical symptoms 14 months after the disaster and to study correlations between survivors' physical and psychological symptoms. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, 1505 survivors from the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, tourists from Stockholm, who had been present in the disaster areas, responded to a postal questionnaire. Eight groups based on type of exposure were created. Physical symptoms occurring on a daily or weekly basis over the past year were investigated in four indices: musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, neurological, and gastrointestinal. Mental health symptoms (General Health Questionnaire-12) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (Impact of Event Scale-Revised) were also investigated. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted with controls for background variables and exposure, with physical symptoms as outcome variables. The association between physical and psychological symptoms was studied with the Spearman Rank Order Correlation. Results: Different types of exposure during the disaster were associated with physical symptoms 14 months later for survivors both with and without severe physical injury. The single exposure of life threat, also in combination with other exposures, was associated with a higher risk for reporting of physical symptoms. Physical symptoms showed modest yet significant correlation with psychological symptoms. Conclusion: It is important to pay attention to both physical and psychological symptoms among disaster survivors whether they have been injured or not. A relatively simple questionnaire about physical symptoms may be a good complement to the scales used to assess psychological problems after disaster. © 2011 Elsevier Inc.
Disasters Volume 35, Issue 3, July 2011, Pages 465-487
Tsunami survivors' perspectives on vulnerability and vulnerability reduction: Evidence from Koh Phi Phi Don and Khao Lak, ThailandSteckley, M.a , 220Doberstein, B.b 22011473a Department of Geography, University of Western Ontario, Canadab Department of Geography, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Canada
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AbstractThis paper presents the results of primary research with 40 survivors of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami in two communities: Khao Lak (n=20) and Koh Phi Phi Don (n=20), Thailand. It traces tsunami survivors' perceptions of vulnerability, determines whether residents felt that the tsunami affected different communities differently, identifies the populations and sub-community groups that survivors distinguished as being more vulnerable than others, highlights community-generated ideas about vulnerability reduction, and pinpoints a range of additional vulnerability reduction actions. Tsunami survivors most consistently identified the 'most vulnerable' community sub-populations as women, children, the elderly, foreigners, and the poor. In Khao Lak, however, respondents added 'Burmese migrants' to this list, whereas in Koh Phi Phi Don, they added 'Thai Muslims'. Results suggest that the two case study communities, both small, coastal, tourism-dominated communities no more than 100 kilometres apart, have differing vulnerable sub-groups and environmental vulnerabilities, requiring different post-disaster vulnerability reduction efforts. © Overseas Development Institute, 2011.
European Psychologist Volume 16, Issue 1, 2011, Pages 48-57
Unlucky victims or lucky survivors?: Spontaneous counterfactual thinking by families exposed to the tsunami disaster ( Review ) Teigen, K.H.a , 220Jensen, T.K.b 220114734a Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1094, Blindern 0317 Oslo, Norwayb Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway
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AbstractSubjective experiences of good or bad luck appear to depend upon downward or upward comparisons with close counterfactuals. People exposed to disasters have both options: They were at the wrong place at the wrong time, but their fate could in many cases have been worse; so in a sense, they are unlucky victims, but lucky survivors. Interviews with 85 Norwegian tourists 9-11 months after they had been exposed to the tsunami disaster in Southeast Asia showed good luck to be a pivotal theme in a majority of the narratives. Nobody claimed they had been unfortunate or unlucky. Moreover, downward counterfactual thoughts and downward comparisons with others occurred 10 times more often than upward counterfactuals and upward comparisons. In a follow-up 2 years later, 95% answered they
had been lucky. A contextual analysis revealed several facets of luck, including its relation to gratitude, guilt, and supernatural beliefs. ©: 2010 Hogrefe Publishing.
Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease Volume 199, Issue 3, March 2011, Pages 162-169
Tsunami-exposed tourist survivors: Signs of recovery in a 3-year PerspectiveJohannesson, K.B.a , 220Lundin, T.a, 220Fröjd, T.a, 220Hultman, C.M.b, 220Michel, P.-O.a
220114735a Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry Akademiska Sjukhuset, Uppsala University Hospital, Ing. 15, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Swedenb Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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AbstractLong-term follow-up after disaster exposure indicates increased rates of psychological distress. However, trajectories and rates of recovery in large samples of disaster-exposed survivors are largely lacking. A group of 3457 Swedish survivors temporarily on vacation in Southeast Asia during the 2004 tsunami were assessed by postal questionnaire at 14 months and 3 years after the tsunami regarding post-traumatic stress reactions (IES-R) and general mental health (GHQ-12). There was a general pattern of resilience and recovery 3 years postdisaster. Severe exposure and traumatic bereavement were associated with increased post-traumatic stress reactions and heightened risk for impaired mental health. The rate of recovery was lower among respondents exposed to life threat and among bereaved. Severe trauma exposure and bereavement seem to have considerable long-term impact on psychological distress and appear to slow down the recovery process. Readiness among health agencies for identification of symptoms and provision of interventions might facilitate optimal recovery. © 2011 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
Journal of Health Management Volume 12, Issue 4, December 2010, Pages 483-500
Social indicators affecting post-tsunami trauma of survivorsSuar, D.a , 220Das, N.b , 220Hota, L.B.c a Damodar Suar is Professor and Head, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
b Namita Das is Lecturer, Centre of Advanced Study in Psychology, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, Indiac Laxmi Bilash Hota is Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Management, Konark Institute of Science and Technology, Khudra, Orissa, India
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AbstractThe study examines whether widow/widower status, educational level and family income influence post-tsunami trauma of survivors. The data were collected 14 months after the tsunami from 416 adult survivors in nine semi-urban habitations of Nagapattinam district in the state of Tamilnadu (India). Post-tsunami trauma was assessed using inventories of post-traumatic stress, depression, negative and positive affectivity, physical health symptoms and anxiety. Post-tsunami trauma of survivors has increased with increasing age, female gender and more exposure. Controlling the confounding effects of age, gender, and exposure; widow/widower status, illiteracy and lower family income are found to intensify trauma and are the risk factors for post-tsunami morbidity. Only illiterates do not report more physical health symptoms than literates, and lower family income neither heightens depression and negative affectivity nor lessens positive affectivity.
Acta Medica Nagasakiensia Volume 55, Issue 1, 2010, Pages 41-46
Post-traumatic stress disorder among senior victims of tsunami-affected areas in southern Sri LankaNomura, A.ab, 220Honda, S.c , 220Hayakawa, H.d, 220Amarasinghe, S.e, 220Aoyagi, K.c
22011473a Department of Nursing, Nagasaki University, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japanb Doctoral Course of Infection Research, Nagasaki University, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japanc Department of Public Health, Nagasaki University, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japand Keio Futsubu School, Yokohama, Japane Department of Sociology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka
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AbstractBackground: On 26 December 2004, a large earthquake occurred off the coast of Sumatra, and a devastating tsunami struck surrounding countries. Sri Lanka was seriously affected, with more than 31,000 deaths and 4,000 people missing. Objective: To elucidate the relationship between factors of tsunami-related exposure and mental health conditions among the senior residents of tsunami-affected areas in southern Sri Lanka. Subjects: A total of 90 subjects (43 men, 47 women) aged 60 years or older who were living in the Matara district at the time of the tsunami attack. Methods: A survey by interview using a structured questionnaire was conducted in 2008. The collected information included demographic factors, tsunami-related exposure and mental health conditions. The Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) was used to assess their post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Results: The median of the IES-R score was significantly higher in those who were situated at home; those who saw anyone the dead or injured; those whose evacuations were delayed; those whose family member or friend was injured; those who were injured; those who lost their children, spouse or family members; those whose family member was missing; those who lost livelihood, compared with those who were not or those who did not. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that younger age and loss of or injury to family members due to the tsunami were significantly associated with an increase in IES-R score. Conclusion: The results indicate that tsunami-related exposures have affected elderly survivors' mental health. © 2006 Nagasaki University Library.
Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America Volume 22, Issue 4, December 2010, Pages 515-522
Cultural, ethical, and spiritual implications of natural disasters from the survivors' perspective ( Review ) Varghese, S.B.
School of Nursing, University of Houston Victoria, Sugar Land Campus, 14000 University Boulevard, Office # 347, Sugar Land, TX 77479, United States
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AbstractA disaster is defined as an unforeseen event that causes great damage, destruction, and human suffering, which in turn overwhelms the response capacity of local communities, oftentimes necessitating external requests for assistance on a national or international level. Many investigators have explored the nature of, reasons for, and management of disasters; however, there exists a paucity of literature that details disaster from the victims' perspective. This article focuses on the cultural, ethical, and spiritual implications of natural disasters from the survivors' perspective. © 2010.
Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Volume 31, Issue 9, November 2010, Pages 723-727
Psychosocial first Aid: Support for the child survivors of the Asian TsunamiPairojkul, S.a , 220Siripul, P.b, 220Prateepchaikul, L.c, 220Kusol, K.d, 220Puytrakul, T.e
22011473a 123/979 Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailandb Faculty of Nursing, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailandc Faculty of Nursing, Prince of Songkhla University, Songkhla, Thailandd School of Nursing, Walailuk University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailande Center for Protection of Children's Rights, Bangkok, Thailand
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AbstractWe developed and implemented an assessment and intervention program that can be used as psychosocial first aid for children caught up in a humanitarian emergency. We developed training modules for professionals in this aspect of disaster relief. We based this in regional institutions, so that the program would have wide implementation across the country. Because this disaster was not anticipated, we were fortunate to have a group of previously trained individuals who were able to implement the knowledge and skills required to do workforce training. We would have liked to have used more rigorous program assessment activities, but there was no time to do so. More communities and countries need to do more disaster preparation that includes psychosocial first aid for children. It is important that multiple modalities of psychosocial assistance be used and available to strengthen families, to restore livelihoods, and to revitalize communities in the aftermath of a disaster. The use of the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Scale proved useful, and we recommend its development as a tool for testing the effectiveness of psychosocial first aid.
Nordic Journal of Psychiatry Volume 64, Issue 4, August 2010, Pages 245-252
Childhood life events and psychological symptoms in adult survivors of the 2004 tsunamiWahlström, L.a , 220Michélsen, H.a, 220Schulman, A.a, 220Backheden, M.b 22011473a Center for Family and Community Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobéls Alle 12, S-141 83 Huddinge, Swedenb Department for Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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AbstractBackground: Negative life events in childhood have an adverse influence on adult psychological health, and increase vulnerability to subsequent potential traumas. It remains unclear whether this is also true in the case of disasters. Aim: This study investigates whether the experience of negative life events in childhood and adolescence was associated with psychological symptoms in groups of Swedish survivors with different types of exposure to the tsunami. Methods: 1505 survivors from Stockholm responded to a questionnaire on psychological distress, which was sent by post 14 months after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Psychological distress was measured by General Health Questionnaire-12 and suicidal ideation, and post-traumatic stress was measured by Impact of Event ScaleRevised. Life events prior to age 16 were collected and categorized under the indices accident, violence, loss and interpersonal events. Exposure to the tsunami was categorized in different types, and controlled for in the analyses. Results: With the adjustment for confounders, significant odds ratios were found for all indices on at least one outcome measure, despite the powerful effect of the tsunami. We could not discern any distinct difference in the distribution of the tendency to report the different outcomes depending on types of prior life events. Conclusions: The implication of the study is that, for adult survivors of disaster, the reporting of adverse life events from childhood may influence future decisions regarding therapy. © 2010 Informa UK Ltd.
Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment Volume 69, Issue 3, 2010, Pages 431-442
Influence of geomorphology and bathymetry on the effects of the 2004 tsunami at Colachel, South IndiaHentry, C.a , 220Chandrasekar, N.b, 220Saravanan, S.b, 220Sahayam, J.D.b 22011473
a St. Jude's College, Thoothoor, Kanyakumari District 629 176 Tamilnadu, Indiab Centre for GeoTechnology, Manonmanium Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli 627 012 Tamilnadu, India
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AbstractThe paper reports a study of the effects of the 26th December 2004 tsunami on a 3 km length of coastline in southern India. GIS maps were prepared based on field surveys and accounts given by eye-witnesses and survivors. It is concluded that the main height and run-out of the wave were much affected by the on-shore topography and off-shore bathymetry. Where the water immediately off-shore is deepest, the wave was highest, reaching some 10 m. The extent of the inundation is exacerbated by the presence of creeks/estuaries, where it extended to a kilometer inland, and minimized by the presence of a rocky coastline. Recommendations are made to mitigate the hazard. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.
Disaster Prevention and Management Volume 19, Issue 3, 2010, Pages 333-344
"The ripples changed our lives": Health in post-tsunami ThailandMoniruzzaman, M.
University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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AbstractPurpose: The December 2004 tsunami was one of the largest natural disasters in the recent history of Southeast Asia. This paper aims to unfold the experiences of tsunami victims in a highly affected region of Thailand and to examine their post-tsunami health. Design/methodology/approach: Ethnographic fieldwork was carried out in Khao Lak and Thi Muang, two major tsunami affected towns in southern Thailand in May 2007. Detailed informal interviews and participant observation were employed to obtain narratives of tsunami victims. Findings: The research reveals that the health of the tsunami survivors has deteriorated, and that they are still experiencing psychological suffering two and a half years after the tsunami. Research limitations/implications: The long-term health condition and care should be prioritized in post-disaster management. Originality/value: This paper argues that inner healing, which is not usually considered a priority in the development discourse, is essential to relieve the mental pain of tsunami survivors and to aid their post-disaster
recovery. It highlights that culturally pertinent inner healing is invaluable. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
Clinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health Volume 5, 3 June 2009, Article number 11
Posttraumatic mental health establishment of the Tsunami survivors in ThailandThavichachart, N.a , 220Tangwongchai, S.a , 220Worakul, P.a , 220Kanchanatawan, B.a , 220Suppapitiporn, S.a , 220Pattalung, A.S.a , 220Roomruangwong, C.a , 220Chareonsook, O.b
a Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailandb Thailand Center of Excellence for Life Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
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AbstractThe natural disaster known as "the Tsunami" occurred in Andaman coast of Thailand in December 2004, and there had been questions whether it could cause PTSD amongst the population who lives in the affected area and how to avoid PTSD condition to occur. The purpose of this study is to establish statistical results of psychosocial factors, and their correlation to PTSD and other mental disorders in order to generate the PTSD database. Cross sectional community surveys had been conducted in two phases from the same sampling group, the first phase is concerned with prevalence of PTSD, depression and related factors. Results were collected from 3,133 samples and shows that 33.6% suffered from PTSD, 14.27% with depression and 11.27% suffered from both. The second phase is focused on chronic PTSD and other mental disorders 2,573 samples were collected and only 21.6% were diagnosed with chronic PTSD. The statistical analysis has identified risks factors that could cause PTSD, and protective actions which could help to prevent PTSD. © 2009 Thavichachart et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
American Journal of Public Health Volume 99, Issue 4, 1 April 2009, Pages 654-658
Psychosocial care for women survivors of the tsunami disaster in IndiaBecker, S.M.
Department of Health and Human Services, HRSA, 5600 Fisher's Lane, Rockville, MD 20057, United States
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AbstractObjectives. I investigated the effectiveness of Psychosocial Care, a community-based mental health initiative for survivors of the 2004 tsunami disaster in India. Methods. Mental health teams from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in India implemented a train-the-trainer model of psychosocial care in one of the worst tsunami-affected areas of south India. Three months of psychosocial care was provided for an intervention group of women, but not for a control group recruited from an exposed neighboring village. Impact of Event Scale (IES) scores-both total scores and scores for subscales on hypervigilance, avoidance, and intrusion-were compiled for both the intervention and control groups and used as outcome measures. Results. For the intervention group, posttest total IES and subscale scores were significantly lower than pretest scores (P<.001), indicating improvement in symptoms. Posttest total IES and subscale scores were significantly lower for the intervention group than for the control group (P<.001). Conclusions. Psychosocial care is an effective mental health strategy for women survivors of disasters and should be an integral component of disaster response in resource-poor countries.
Journal of Religion and Health Volume 48, Issue 1, March 2009, Pages 38-45
Causal thinking after a tsunami wave: Karma beliefs, pessimistic explanatory style and health among sri lankan survivorsLevy, B.R.a , 220Slade, M.D.a, 220Ranasinghe, P.b 220114732a Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8034, United Statesb Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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AbstractIn 2004, one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded led to a tsunami devastating two-thirds of the Sri Lankan coastline. We examined whether certain causal beliefs (attributional style and karma, a Buddhist concept used to explain bad events) are associated with tsunami survivors experiencing PTSD and poor health about six months later. Previous studies of causal beliefs associated with illness following the same traumatic event have focused on Western countries and none have considered the role of karma. We interviewed 264 Sri Lankan tsunami survivors. As predicted, we found that belief in karma and a pessimistic explanatory style are independently associated with poor health and a pessimistic explanatory style is associated with PTSD, after adjusting for relevant factors. Thus, both universal and more culturally specific beliefs may contribute to coping following a natural disaster. © 2008 Blanton-Peale Institute.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand Volume 92, Issue 3, March 2009, Pages 420-429
Posttraumatic stress disorder of the tsunami survivors in ThailandThavichachart, N.ac, 220Tangwongchai, S.a, 220Worakul, P.a, 220Kanchanatawan, B.a, 220Suppapitiporn, S.a, 220Na Pattalung, A.S.a, 220Roomruangwong, C.a, 220Chareonsook, O.b 220114733a Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailandb Thailand Center of Excellence for Life Sciences, Bangkok, Thailandc Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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AbstractBackground: The natural disaster known as "the Tsunami" occurred in the Andaman sea coast of Thailand in December 2004, and there had been questions whether it could cause PTSD amongst the population who lives in the affected area and how to avoid PTSD condition to occur. Objective: Establish statistical results of psychosocial factors, and their correlation to PTSD and other mental disorders to generate the PTSD database. Material and Method: A cross-sectional community surveys from 3,133 samples had been conducted in two phases from the same sampling group. The first phase was concerned with prevalence of PTSD, depression, and related factors. The second phase included 2,573 samples from the first phase and focused on chronic PTSD and other mental disorders. Results: The 3,133 samples used in the first phase show that 33.6% suffered from PTSD, 14.27% with depression, and 11.27% suffered from both. The 2,573 samples from the first phase were followed, collected the
blood, and interview data only 21.6% were diagnosed with chronic PTSD. Conclusion: The statistical analysis has identified risks factors that could cause PTSD, and protective actions that could help to prevent PTSD. The prevalence of PTSD was still higher in the affected region six months after the Tsunami.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand Volume 91, Issue 9, September 2008, Pages 1478-1486
Psychological wellbeing of survivors of the tsunami: Empowerment and quality of lifeChaiphibalsarisdi, P.ab a Faculty of Nursing, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailandb Faculty of Nursing, Chulalongkorn University, Phyathai Rd, Pratumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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AbstractObjective: To compare the empowerment and the quality of life of individuals before and after receiving the psychological services and support interventions. Study design: This quasi-experimental research had two hypotheses: 1) the survivors gained empowerment, and 2) the survivors experienced improvement in their quality of life, after receiving the interventions. Setting: Krabi province of Thailand. Study population: 593 survivors of the Tsunami on 26 December 2004. Material and Method: The instrument to assess empowerment was modified from Miller, while the instrument to assess quality of life was WHO-BREF. Results: After the intervention, the overall mean of empowerment was at the maximum level, and revealed an increased percentage of the quality of life at a good level in all four domains. The level of the psychological domain was the highest. Conclusion: The sample showed a significant increase in both empowerment and quality of life (p < 0.001). The findings support the hypotheses.
Psychiatry Volume 71, Issue 3, September 2008, Pages 266-276
Acute disaster exposure and mental health complaints of Norwegian tsunami survivors six months post disasterHeir, T.ad , 220Weisæth, L.bc 22011473a Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Ullevål University Hospital, University of Oslob Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Ullevål University Hospitalc Department of Disaster Psychiatry, University of Oslod Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Building 48, Kirkeveien 166, N-0407 Oslo, Norway
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AbstractThe objective was to investigate the relationship between possible disaster stressors and subsequent health problems among tourists experiencing the 2004 South-East Asia tsunami. A cross-sectional study was performed as a postal survey concerning the experiences of the disaster exposure in retrospect and the presence of psychological symptoms (GHQ-28) in Norwegian tsunami victims 6 months post disaster. The strongest predictors of health complaints were danger of death, witness impressions, and bereavements. Aggravated outcomes were also seen in those who helped others in the acute phase or had sole responsibility for children when the tsunami struck. Having a family member or close friend who was injured was reversely associated with health problems. Women reported more psychological distress than men, but the difference disappeared with increasing degree of danger exposure. Dose-response relationships to psychological distress were found for single exposure factors as well as for the cumulative effects of being exposed to several exposure variables.
Pediatric Blood and Cancer Volume 58, Issue 6, June 2012, Pages 964-970
Physical and mental health status and health behaviors of childhood cancer survivors: Findings from the 2009 BRFSS surveyPhillips-Salimi, C.R.a , 220Lommel, K.b, 220Andrykowski, M.A.b 2201214732
a University of Kentucky College of Nursing, Lexington, KY, United Statesb University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
View references (41)
AbstractBackground: The growing number of childhood cancer survivors makes examination of their current physical and mental health status and health behaviors an important concern. Much of what is known about the long-term outcomes of childhood cancer survivors comes from the Childhood Cancer Cohort Study (CCSS) which uses sibling controls. Procedure: Using data from the 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey, 651 childhood cancer survivors and 142,932 non-cancer peer controls were identified. The two groups were compared on a variety of physical and mental health status and health behavior variables using ANCOVA and binary logistic regression. Results: While controlling for differences in age, sex, and minority status, survivors significantly (P≤0.001) had poorer socioeconomic outcomes, more comorbid conditions, lower life satisfaction, less social and emotional support, poorer general health, and reported more days per month of poor physical and mental health than non-cancer individuals. Survivors were more likely to report being a current smoker [odds ratio (OR)=2.33; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.98-2.73; P<0.001]; tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (OR=1.79; 95% CI, 1.52-2.11; P<0.001); and that at least one HIV situation applied to them (OR=2.06; 95% CI, 1.55-2.74; P<0.001). No significant differences were found between groups in regards alcohol use and diet. Conclusions: Results support and extend previous findings reported by the CCSS. New findings regarding survivors' increased likelihood to engage in risky behaviors proposes new directions for future research. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sense of coherence, socioeconomic conditions and health
Interrelationships in a nation-wide Swedish sample
1. GERRY LARSSON and 2. KJELL O. KALLENBERG
+Author Affiliations
1. The Centra for Public Health Research Karistad, Sweden2. Örebro Medical Center Hospital Örebro, Sweden
1. Correspondence: Gerry Larsson, professor, PhD, The Centre for Public Health Research, The County Council of Värmland, P.O Box 9104, S-650 09 Karistad, Sweden, tel. +46 54 885522 fax +46 54 885523
Received September 22, 1994. Accepted June 6, 1995.
Abstract
This study explores the distribution of sense of coherence (SOC) in common demographic and socioeconomic subgroups in a nation-wide representative sample. It also explores the relationship between SOC and these conditions, on the one hand and self-reported indicators of health, on the other. The sample consisted of 2,003 Swedes; 976 men and 1,027 women. The mean age was 44.2 years (SD = 16.6 years). The sample was selected by SIFO, the biggest Swedish market research institute, to be representative of the
Swedish population between the ages of 15 and 75 years. All participants responded to a mailed questionnaire including Antonovsky's short SOC questionnaire, common socioeconomic and sodal situation variables and health questions. The distribution of SOC scores in different subgroups was partly inconsistent with previous studies. A sex difference was found; men scored significantly higher on the SOC scale than women. Regarding age, SOC scores increased with increasing age. Bivariate statistics showed that SOC was more strongly related to general well-being and psychological symptoms than to overall physical health and somatic symptoms. SOC was also more strongly related to health among women than men. Multivariate statistics (separately for men and women) indicated that SOC was more strongly related to the health indicators than age, education and income levels, number of persons in the household and number of friends. The possibility of a conceptual overlap between SOC and self-assessments of health, well-being and psychological symptoms in particular is discussed.
Adverse socioeconomic conditions in childhood and cause specific adult mortality: prospective observational studyBMJ 1998; 316 doi: 10.1136/bmj.316.7145.1631 (Published 30 May 1998)
Cite this as: BMJ 1998;316:1631
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the association between social circumstances in childhood and mortality from various
causes of death in adulthood.
Design: Prospective observational study.
Setting: 27 workplaces in the west of Scotland.
Subjects: 5645 men aged 35–64 years at the time of examination.
Main outcome measures: Death from various causes.
Results: Men whose fathers had manual occupations when they were children were more likely as adults to
have manual jobs and be living in deprived areas. Gradients in mortality from coronary heart disease, stroke,
lung cancer, stomach cancer, and respiratory disease were seen (all P<0.05), generally increasing from men
whose fathers had professional and managerial occupations (social class I and II) to those whose fathers had
semiskilled and unskilled manual occupations (social class IV and V). Relative rates of mortality adjusted for age
for men with fathers in manual versus non-manual occupations were 1.52 (95% confidence interval 1.24 to 1.87)
for coronary heart disease, 1.83 (1.13 to 2.94) for stroke, 1.65 (1.12 to 2.43) for lung cancer, 2.06 (0.93 to 4.57)
for stomach cancer, and 2.01 (1.17 to 3.48) for respiratory disease. Mortality from other cancers and accidental
and violent death showed no association with fathers' social class. Adjustment for adult socioeconomic
circumstances and risk factors did not alter results for mortality from stroke and stomach cancer, attenuated the
increased risk of coronary heart disease and respiratory disease, and essentially eliminated the association with
lung cancer.
Conclusions: Adverse socioeconomic circumstances in childhood have a specific influence on mortality from
stroke and stomach cancer in adulthood, which is not due to the continuity of social disadvantage throughout life.
Deprivation in childhood influences risk of mortality from coronary heart disease and respiratory disease in
adulthood, although an additive influence of adulthood circumstances is seen in these cases. Mortality from lung
cancer, other cancer, and accidents and violence is predominantly influenced by risk factors that are related to
social circumstances in adulthood.
Key messages
Adverse socioeconomic conditions in childhood are associated with mortality in later life
Mortality from stroke and stomach cancer is particularly dependent on social circumstances in childhood
Mortality from coronary heart disease and respiratory disease is dependent on social circumstances in both
adulthood and childhood
Mortality from accidents and violence and from lung cancer is mainly dependent on factors acting in adulthood
The increases in child poverty seen in Britain and elsewhere over the past 20 years may herald unfavourable
future trends in adult health
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Socioeconomic conditions in childhood and ischaemic heart disease during middle age.BMJ 1990; 301 doi: 10.1136/bmj.301.6761.1121 (Published 17 November 1990)
Cite this as: BMJ 1990;301:1121
hor Affiliations
Abstract
OBJECTIVE--To examine the association between socioeconomic conditions in childhood and ischaemic heart
disease in middle aged men, including the role of physiological and behavioural risk factors. DESIGN--
Prevalence study with extensive examination and testing and with recall of childhood conditions. SETTING--
Population based study in Kuopio, Finland. SUBJECTS--Representative sample of 2679 men aged 42, 48, 54,
and 60. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES--Ischaemic findings on progressive maximal exercise test. RESULTS--
Low socioeconomic style in childhood was associated with significantly higher prevalence of findings indicating
ischaemias. Compared with those in the highest tertile of childhood socioeconomic conditions, the age adjusted
odds ratio for subjects in the lowest tertile was 1.44 and for those in the middle tertile 1.35. Adjustment for years
of cigarette smoking times the average number of cigarettes smoked, ratio of high density lipoprotein to low
density lipoprotein cholesterol, fibrinogen and serum selenium concentrations, and adult height did not
appreciably weaken the association. Adjustment for adult socioeconomic state resulted in a 16% decline in the
association. The association was reduced to non-significance by adjustment for measures of prevalent
cardiovascular illness. CONCLUSIONS--Socioeconomic state in childhood was significantly associated with
ischaemic heart disease in middle aged men. Levels of risk factors measured at middle age did not account for
this association, nor did adult height. Because childhood socioeconomic conditions precede the development of
ischaemic heart disease the substantial impact of prevalent illness on the observed association suggests that
ischaemic heart disease develops earlier in those with lower socioeconomic state during childhood.
Nutritional intake, socioeconomic conditions, and health status in a large elderly population.
(PMID:2332573)
Abstract Citations BioEntities Related Articles
Bianchetti A, Rozzini R, Carabellese C, Zanetti O, Trabucchi M
Geriatric Research Group, Brescia, Italy.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society [1990, 38(5):521-6]
Type: Journal Article
Abstract Highlight Terms
Diseases(1) Chemicals(4)
The nutritional intake of a large population of noninstitutionalized older people living in an urban area was studied in relation to socioeconomic conditions (living environment, income, and education) and health status (affective, functional, and physical health) to identify the subgroups at risk formalnutrition. Twenty-four-hour dietary recall was used to determine the percentage of older subjects with dietary intake of specific nutrients below two thirds of the 1980 Recommended Dietary Allowances. Ninety percent of the older people examined showed inadequate intake of thiamine and vitamin B6, and 30% to 40% demonstrated deficiencies of vitamin A, vitamin C, niacin, vitamin B12, calcium, and iron; only 10% of subjects had inadequate intake of protein. Poor nutritional intake was correlated more strongly with socioeconomic conditions, functional level, and affective status than with physical health status.
Mortality in adults aged 26-54 years related to socioeconomic conditions in childhood and adulthood: post war birth cohort studyBMJ 2002; 325 doi: 10.1136/bmj.325.7372.1076 (Published 9 November 2002)
Cite this as: BMJ 2002;325:1076.1
Epidemiologic studies
Epidemiology
Sociology
Article
Related content
Read responses (1)
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1. Diana Kuh, epidemiologist ([email protected]),
2. Rebecca Hardy, medical statistician,
3. Claudia Langenberg, physician,
4. Marcus Richards, psychologist,
5. Michael E J Wadsworth, director
Author Affiliations
1. Correspondence to: D Kuh
Accepted 15 August 2002
Abstract
Objective: To examine premature mortality in adults in relation to socioeconomic conditions in childhood and
adulthood.
Design: Nationally representative birth cohort study with prospective information on socioeconomic conditions.
Setting: England, Scotland, and Wales.
Study members: 2132 women and 2322 men born in March 1946 and followed until age 55 years.
Main outcome measures: Deaths between 26 and 54 years of age notified by the NHS central register.
Results: Study members whose father's occupation was manual at age 4, or who lived in the worst housing, or
who received the poorest care in childhood had double the death rate during adulthood of those living in the best
socioeconomic conditions. All indicators of socioeconomic disadvantage at age 26 years, particularly lack of
home ownership, were associated with a higher death rate. Manual origins and poor care in childhood remained
associated with mortality even after adjusting for social class in adulthood or home ownership. The hazard ratio
was 2.6 (95% confidence interval 1.5 to 4.4) for those living in manual households as children and as adults
compared with those living in non-manual households at both life stages. The hazard ratio for those from manual
origins who did not own their own home at age 26 years was 4.9 (2.3 to 10.5) compared with those from non-
manual origins who were home owners.
Conclusions: Socioeconomic conditions in childhood as well as early adulthood have strongly influenced the
survival of British people born in the immediate post war era.
What is already known on this topic
What is already known on this topic Associations between socioeconomic conditions in childhood and
mortality in adulthood suggest that risks to survival begin in early life
Studies have been generally retrospective, been unrepresentative, used only one marker of childhood conditions,
controlled inadequately for adult conditions, or not included women
What this study adds
What this study adds The death rate for women and men between 26 and 54 years living in poor
socioeconomic conditions in childhood was double that of those living in the best conditions
Those for whom socioeconomic disadvantage continued into early adulthood were between three and five times
more likely to die than those in the most advantageous conditions
Food habits in Swedish adolescents in relation to socioeconomic conditions.
(PMID:9846589)
Abstract Citations BioEntities Related Articles
Höglund D, Samuelson G, Mark A
Department of Public Health, Göteborg, Sweden.
European Journal of Clinical Nutrition [1998, 52(11):784-9]
Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
DOI: 10.1038/sj.ejcn.1600644
Abstract Highlight Terms
Species(1)
OBJECTIVE: To describe the food habits of Swedish adolescents 14-15 y of age. To analyse the connection between food habits and socioeconomic circumstances and background factors.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey using a Food Frequency Questionnaire including questions on meal patterns.
SETTING: The city of Göteborg and the County of Alvsborg, Sweden 1996.
SUBJECTS: Pupils in the 8th grade in all schools in the city of Göteborg and the County of Alvsborg were in February 1996 invited to participate. The study comprised 7605 pupils. The drop-out rate was 14.4% (n = 1280).
RESULTS: The adolescents had an infrequent consumption of vegetables and fruits and they had a daily consumption of sweets. Cereals, dairy products and snacks: buns, wafers, soft drinks, ice cream andpotato crisps were consumed more than once a day. Thirty percent of the girls and 20% of the boys did not eat breakfast every day. The free school lunch was eaten daily by 50% of the boys and 30% of the girls, the remainder ate some type of snack. A negative correlation was found between smoking and the frequency of vegetable consumption. Pupils from areas with high socioeconomic status more often ate breakfast and lunch and the boys more often ate dinner compared to adolescents from areas with low socioeconomic status.
CONCLUSIONS: An irregular meal pattern as well as snack consumption and smoking were common, especially among girls in areas with low socioeconomic status.
Life course socioeconomic conditions and adult psychosocial functioning
1. Sam Harpera, 2. John Lyncha, 3. Wan-Ling Hsua, 4. Susan A Eversona,5. Marianne M Hillemeiera, 6. Trivellore E Raghunathanb,
7. Jukka T Salonenc and8. George A Kaplana
+Author Affiliations
1. 1Department of Epidemiology and Center for Social Epidemiology and Population Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
2. bDepartment of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
3. cResearch Institute of Public Health and Department of Public Health and General Practice, University of Kuopio, Kuopio, Finland, and Inner Savo Health Centre, Suonenjoki, Finland.
1. John Lynch, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 109 South Observatory Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109–2029, USA. E-mail: [email protected]
Accepted November 16, 2001.Abstract
Background Various psychosocial factors have been linked to adult physical health and are also associated with socioeconomic position in adulthood. We evaluated the effect of socioeconomic conditions over the life course on measures of psychosocial functioning in adulthood.
Methods Life course socioeconomic position was assessed by retrospective recall of parents' education and occupation when the respondent was age 10, and the respondents' education, occupation, and income in 2585 men from eastern Finland aged 42, 48, 54, and 60 years. Measures of psychosocial functioning were derived from scales measuring cynical hostility, hopelessness, and depressive symptoms.
Results Men with both parents who had less than a primary school education or who both had unskilled manual jobs had higher age-adjusted levels of cynical hostility, hopelessness, and depressive symptoms in adulthood. Mutually adjusted analyses showed that parents' education and the respondents' education, occupation, and income all had statistically independent effects on adult levels of cynical hostility and hopelessness. For instance, men for whom neither parent had completed primary education had a 0.15 standard deviation (P= 0.006) higher cynical hostility score, and a 0.20 standard deviation (P = 0.00018) higher hopelessness score, after adjustment for education, occupation and income. In contrast, depressive symptoms in adulthood were only associated with the respondent's occupation and income.
Conclusions Childhood socioeconomic position was associated with adult psychosocial functioning, but these effects were specific to some aspects of adult psychosocial functioning—cynical hostility and hopelessness, but not depressive symptoms. Adult occupation and income were associated with all measures of psychosocial functioning. In addition to the impact of adult socioeconomic position, some aspects of poor psychosocial functioning in adulthood may also have socioeconomic roots early in life.
Paper
International Journal of Obesity (2003) 27, 1081–1086. doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0802323
Child to adult socioeconomic conditions and obesity in a national cohort
C Power1, O Manor2 and S Matthews1
1. 1Department of Paediatric Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Child Health, London, UK
2. 2Department of Statistics, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, The Hebrew University and Hadassah, Jerusalem, Israel
Correspondence: Prof C. Power, Department of Paediatric Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK. E-mail: [email protected]
Received 10 October 2002; Revised 26 February 2003; Accepted 20 March 2003.
Top of page
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Critical stages in childhood are suspected for adult obesity. We sought to identify (i) whether risk of adult obesity is influenced by childhood socioeconomic conditions in addition to those in adulthood; and (ii) whether conditions in childhood act independently or through their association with education or parental obesity.
DESIGN: Longitudinal, 1958 British birth cohort.
SUBJECTS: A total of 11 405 men and women followed to age 33 y.
MEASUREMENTS: Social class at birth and ages 7, 11, 16, 23 and 33 y. Obesity
(BMI 30) at age 33 y.
RESULTS: Social class was related to obesity, cross-sectionally at ages 16 (women), 23 and 33 y, but not at younger ages. In analysis of adult obesity (age 33 y) and social class at five life stages, class at age 7 y significantly predicted obesity for women (adjusted odds ratio (OR)=1.31, that is, the odds increased by 31% for each decrease in social class). For men, class at birth and age 23 y predicted adult obesity (adjusted OR=1.19 and 1.16, respectively). Education was also associated with adult obesity, increasing the odds by 30% (men) and 35% (women) for each decrease in qualification level. Adjustment for education level and parental BMI did not abolish the effect on adult obesity of class at age 7 y among women, nor of class at birth among men, while class at age 23 y reduced to borderline significance.
CONCLUSIONS: Cross-sectional associations for social class and obesity can be misleading and obscure effects of childhood socioeconomic conditions. Influences around birth to age 7 y have a long-lasting impact on the risk of adult obesity.
Research report
Influence of socioeconomic conditions on air pollution adverse health effects in elderly people: an analysis of six regions in São Paulo, Brazil
1. M C H Martins 1 , 2. F L Fatigati 2 , 3. T C Véspoli 3 , 4. L C Martins 4 , 5. L A A Pereira 4 , 6. M A Martins 5 ,7. P H N Saldiva 4 , 8. A L F Braga 6
+Author Affiliations
1. 1São Paulo City Health Departments, Brazil2. 2São Paulo City Environment Departments, Brazil3. 3São Paulo City Planning Departments, Brazil4. 4Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, Brazil5. 5Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution Department of Medicine, University of São Paulo
Medical School6. 6Environmental Paediatrics Program, University of Santo Amaro Medical School, São Paulo,
Brazil1. Correspondence to: Professor A L F Braga Programa de Pediatria Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina de Santo
Amaro–UNISA/, Hospital Geral do Grajaú, Rua Francisco Octávio Pacca, 180, 4° Andar, CEP 04822-320, Grajaú, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; [email protected]
Accepted 27 May 2003
AbstractStudy objective: To evaluate if the effects of particulate matter (PM10) on respiratory mortality of elderly people are affected by socioeconomic status.
Design: Time series studies. The daily number of elderly respiratory deaths were modelled in generalised linear Poisson regression models controlling for long term trend, weather, and day of the week, from January 1997 to December 1999, in six different regions of São Paulo City, Brazil. The regions were defined according to the proximity of air pollution monitoring stations. Three socioeconomic indicators were used: college education, monthly income, and housing.
Main results: For a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM10, the percentage increase in respiratory mortality varied from 1.4% (95% CI 5.9 to 8.7) to 14.2% (95% CI 0.4 to 28.0). The overall percentage increase in the six regions was 5.4% (95% CI 2.3 to 8.6). The effect of PM10 was negatively correlated with both percentage of people with college education and high family income, and it was positively associated with the percentage of people living in slums.
Conclusions: These results suggest that socioeconomic deprivation represents an effect modifier of the association between air pollution and respiratory deaths.
Policy change and learning : an advocacy coalition approachby Paul A Sabatier, Hank C Jenkins-Smith, Paul Sabatier
Social Sciences › Political Science Papers
Abstract
Summary: (1) the purpose of the book: the introduction of their policy process model that aims to explain (a) how
policy problems are defined, (b) the policy designed for dealing with problems, (c) the implementation, and (d) the
revision of these remedies (xi). (2) It criticizes the stages framework of Jones (1977) "An Introduction to the Study
of Public Policy" and Anderson's (1979) "Public Policy Making". Its limitations (pp.3-4): (a) not a causal model, (b)
(as a result of (a)) provide no clear basis for empirical testing, (c) "suffer from descriptive inaccuracy" (p.3) policy
process does not follow such a linear sequence, (d) "suffers from a built-in legalistic, top-down focus" (p.3) (it was
a point I used in my dissertation also, legalistic approach), (e) "inappropriately emphasizes the policy cycle as the
temporal unit of analysis", you need a model would focus on "multiple, interacting cycles involving multiple levels
of government" (p.4); (f) "fail to provide a good vehicle for integrating the roles of policy analysis and policy-
oriented learning throughout the public policy process" (p.4) (3) the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) (a very
succinct summary on p.5): Three sets of processes: (a) interaction of competing advocacy coalitions within a
policy subsystem, (an advocacy coalition consists of actors from various types of groups at various levels who
share the set sets of basic beliefs, such as policy goals and causal relationships; they seek to manipulate rules,
budgets, and personnels of governmental institutions to achieve their goals) (b) changes external to the
subsystems in socioeconomic conditions, system-wide governing coalitions, and output from other subsystems
that provide opportunities and obstacles to the competing coaltiions, (c) the effect of stable system parameters,
such as social structure and constitutional rules, on the constraints and resources of the various subsystem
actors. Policy-oriented learning is usually confined to the secondary aspects of belief system (as Kuhn argues in
its the Structure of Scientific Revolution"). (4) Elaboration of ACF (see chapter 2) (5) learning in greater details
but in shorter time-frame: it interests in knowing "the conditions under which analysis produced by one coalition is
most likely to alter the beliefs of opposing coalitions" (p.6), which depends on (a) the level of conflict, the
analytical tractability of problem, and the nature of analytical forum (p.6). (6) the differences between the ACF
and other major theories of the policy process: (a) Lowi's arenas of power (Lowi, 1964, 1972; Ripley and Franklin,
1982): (policy types politics) ACF ignores the fundamental tenets (b) Kingdon's multiple streams: the ACF uses
the insight of "window of opportunity" but is more complex in process and paying attention to the entire policy
process, including policy implementation and evaluation. (c) Hofferbert's Funnel of Causality (Hofferbert, 1974;
Mazmanian and Sabatier, 1980): incoporates the importance of the socioeconomic environment but differ in
"distinguishing the policy subsystem from the broader political system"..... (d) Satist Theory (e) Institutional
Rational Choice (Kiser and Ostrom, 1982; Ostrom, 1990; Chubb and Moe, 1990): goes beyond them by pointing
out the sources of change of rules as the result of strategic interaction among advocacy coalition over time. It
also expands the range of guidance instruments from nistitutional rules to include changes in budgets and
personnel. (f) traditional pluralist theory (Truman, 1951): ACF incoporates Truman's emphasis on the role of
interest groups in shaping governmental institutions. On the other hand, advocacy coalition consists not only
interest groups but members of legislators, agency officals, researchers, and journalists. Taking all together, ACF
borrows elements particularly from Hofferbert, institutional rational choice, and pluralism with the emphasis on
policy-oriented learning and intergovernmental relations, and conceptualization of public policy as a belief system
(pp.37-38). Comments: (1) it reflects what has been in the center of Sabatier's point as seen in 1991. Coming out
of a dissatisfaction of existing theory, he proposed the advocacy coalition theory for policy change and policy
learning. His criticism of existing stage heuristic policy process model is its lack of testable hypotheses... (2) it is
a good model of policy change and learning. However, it may not say too much about the effectiveness of policy,
neither would it be able to offer more specific recommendation for improving policy implementation.
Socioeconomic conditions, lifestyle factors, and self-rated health among men and women in Sweden
1. Anu Molarius1, 2. Kenneth Berglund2, 3. Charli Eriksson3,4, 4. Mats Lambe2,5,5. Eva Nordström6, 6. Hans G. Eriksson6 and 7. Inna Feldman2
+Author Affiliations
1. 1Västmanland County Council, Department of Community Medicine Västerås, Sweden2. 2Uppsala County Council, Department of Community Medicine Uppsala, Sweden3. 3Örebro County Council, Department of Community Medicine Örebro, Sweden4. 4Department of Caring Sciences, Örebro University Örebro, Sweden5. 5Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute Stockholm,
Sweden6. 6Sörmland County Council, Department of Community Medicine Eskilstuna, Sweden
1. Correspondence: A. Molarius, Västmanland County Council, Department of Community Medicine, 721 51 Västerås, Sweden, tel: +46 21 17 45 83, fax: +46 21 17 45 09, e-mail:[email protected]
Received June 10, 2005. Accepted April 4, 2006.
Abstract
Background: Socioeconomic conditions and lifestyle factors have been found to be related to self-rated health, which is an established predictor of morbidity and mortality. Few studies, however, have investigated the independent effect of material and psychosocial conditions as well as lifestyle factors on self-rated health. Methods: The
association between socioeconomic conditions, lifestyle factors, and self-rated health was investigated using a postal survey questionnaire sent to a random population sample of men and women aged 18–79 years during March–May 2000. The overall response rate was 65%. The area investigated covers 58 municipalities in the central part of Sweden. Multivariate odds ratios for poor self-rated health were calculated for a range of variables. A total of 36 048 subjects with full data were included in the analysis. Similar
analyses of the influence of working conditions were conducted among those employed aged 18–64 years (17 820 subjects). Results: The overall prevalence of poor self-rated health was 7% among men and 9% among women. Poor self-rated health was most common among persons who had been belittled, who had experienced economic hardship, who lacked social support, or who had retired early. A low educational level was independently associated with poor self-rated health among men, but not among women. Physically inactive as well as underweight and obese subjects were more likely to have poor self-rated health than other subjects. Working conditions associated with poor self-rated health were dissatisfaction with work, low job control and worry about losing one's job.Conclusion: While a cross-sectional study does not allow definite conclusions as to which factors are determinants and which are consequences of poor self-rated, the present findings support the notion that both psychosocial and material conditions as well as lifestyle factors are independently related with poor self-rated health.
Socioeconomic Conditions and Property Crime:
A Comprehensive Review and Test of the Professional Literature
1. Ralph C. Allen
Article first published online: 3 JUL 2006
DOI: 10.1111/j.1536-7150.1996.tb02311.x
ABSTRACT.
A comprehensive review of the crime literature indicates varying and often opposing hypotheses of relationships
between property crimeand socioeconomic conditions such as poverty, business cycle conditions, demographics,
criminal justice system actions, and family structure. Employing measures of each of the hypothesized factors,
time-series models for robbery, burglary, and vehicle theft are estimated from yearly and national Uniform Crime
Report (UCR) data for the period 1959 through 1992 and are used to test these hypotheses' current empirical
relevance. The empirical findings selectively confirm the importance of macroeconomic stability andcriminal
justice system actions in reducing property crime activity. In contrast, decreases in absolute poverty and
general income inequalityare associated with increased criminal activity; and age demographics and
family/community structure apparently have little impact on any of the analyzed property-crime trends, A
reduction in inflation apparently decreases property crimes.
Restricted fetal growth and adverse maternal psychosocial and socioeconomic conditions as risk factors for suicidal behaviour of offspring: a cohort studyE Mittendorfer-Rutz MSc a b, F Rasmussen PhD b, Prof D Wasserman PhD a b
Summary
BackgroundUntil now, sparse and contradictory results about an association between adverse neonatal, obstetric, and maternal conditions and heightened suicide risk in adolescents have been reported. The aims of this study were to investigate the relations between fetal growth, obstetric complications, and the mother's psychosocial and socioeconomic situation and the risk in early adulthood of suicide and attempted suicide in the offspring.
MethodsObstetric, neonatal, and maternal risk factors for suicide and attempted suicide in 713370 young adults, born in Sweden between 1973 and 1980, who were followed-up until Dec 31, 1999, were examined by data linkage between Swedish registers. Univariate and multivariate hazard ratios, derived from proportional-hazard models, were estimated.
FindingsSignificantly raised risk of attempted suicide was reported for individuals of short birth length, adjusted for gestational age (hazard ratio 1·29, 95% CI 1·18—1·41, p<0·0001); born fourth or more in birth order (1·79, 1·62—1·97, p<0·0001); born to mothers with a low educational level (1·36, 1·27—1·46, p<0·0001) (attributable proportion 10·3%); and those who, at time of delivery, had mothers aged 19 years or younger (2·09, 1·89—2·32, p<0·0001). Significant predictors of suicide were low birthweight, adjusted for gestational age (2·23, 1·43—3·46, p<0·0001), and teenage motherhood (2·30, 1·64—3·22, p<0·0001).
InterpretationMultiparity and low maternal education predicted suicide attempt, whereas restricted fetal growth and teenage motherhood were associated with both suicide completion and attempt in offspring.
Childhood and Adult Socioeconomic Conditions and 31-Year Mortality Risk in Women
1. Jennifer Beebe-Dimmer1, 2. John W. Lynch1, 3. Gavin Turrell2, 4. Stephanie Lustgarten3,5. Trivellore Raghunathan4 and 6. George A. Kaplan1
+Author Affiliations
1. 1 Department of Epidemiology and Center for Social Epidemiology and Population Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
2. 2 School of Public Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
3. 3 Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA.
4. 4 Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
Abstract
Links between low socioeconomic position and poor health are well established. Most previous research, however, has focused on middle-aged males and has relied on limited
socioeconomic data, usually measured at one point over the life course. This paper examines all-cause, cardiovascular, and noncardiovascular mortality in women in relation to socioeconomic position at different stages of the life course. Information was collected in 1965, 1974, 1983, and 1994 and included recalled father’s occupation and education as a measure of childhood socioeconomic position and the respondent’s household income, education and occupation, and spouse’s occupation from a sample of 3,087 women participating in the Alameda County Study. Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios for risk of death. Lower childhood socioeconomic position was associated with an increased mortality due to cardiovascular disease (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.29, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09, 1.54) but was unrelated to death due to other causes (HR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.82, 1.15). Overall mortality was higher among women reporting the lowest level of education (HR = 1.17, 95% CI: 0.99, 1.39), but education was most strongly related to noncardiovascular disease-related deaths (HR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.81). Low household income was also associated with higher mortality, for both cardiovascular disease-related (HR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.14, 1.91) and noncardiovascular disease-related (HR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.63) deaths. Both early and later life indicators of socioeconomic position contribute to increased mortality risk among socioeconomically disadvantaged women, but these effects appear stronger for cardiovascular mortality.
Grip Strength, Postural Control, and Functional Leg Power in a Representative Cohort of British Men and Women: Associations With Physical Activity, Health Status, and Socioeconomic Conditions
1. Diana Kuh 1 , 2. E. Joan Bassey 2 , 3. Suzanne Butterworth 1 , 4. Rebecca Hardy 1 ,5. Michael E. J. Wadsworth 1 and 6. and the Musculoskeletal Study Team
+Author Affiliations
1. 1Medical Research Council National Survey of Health and Development, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London, United Kingdom.
2. 2School of Biomedical Sciences, Nottingham University Medical School, United Kingdom.1. Address correspondence to Professor D. Kuh, MRC National Survey of Health and Development,
Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Royal Free and University College Medical School, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, United Kingdom, WC1E 6BT. E-mail:[email protected]
Received June 13, 2003. Accepted October 3, 2003.
Abstract
Background.Understanding the health, behavioral, and social factors that influence physical performance in midlife may provide clues to the origins of frailty in old age and the future health of elderly populations. The authors evaluated muscle strength, postural control, and chair rise performance in a large representative prospective cohort of 53-year-old British men and women in relation to functional limitations, body size, health and activity, and socioeconomic conditions. Methods.Nurses interviewed 2984 men and women in their own homes in England, Scotland, and Wales and conducted physical examinations in 2956 of them. Objective measures were height, weight, and three physical performance tests: handgrip strength,
one-legged standing balance time, and time to complete 10 chair rises. Functional limitations (difficulties walking, stair climbing, gripping, and falls), health status, physical activity, and social class were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Results.Those with the worst scores on the physical performance tests had higher rates of functional limitations for both upper and lower limbs. Women had much weaker handgrip strength, somewhat poorer balance time, and only slightly poorer chair rise time compared with men. In women, health problems and low levels of physical activity contributed to poor physical performance on all three measures. In men, physical activity was the predominant influence. Heavier weight and poorer socioeconomic conditions contributed to poorer balance and chair rise times. Conclusions.In this representative middle-aged group, physical performance levels varied widely, and women were seriously disadvantaged compared with men. In general, physical performance was worse for men and women living in poorer socioeconomic conditions with greater body weight, poorer health status, and inactive lifestyles. These findings support recommendations for controlling excess body weight, effective health interventions, and the maintenance of active lifestyles during aging
J Epidemiol Community Health 1999;53:204-210 doi:10.1136/jech.53.4.204
Suicide, religion, and socioeconomic conditions. An ecological study in 26 countries, 1990.
1. J Neeleman , 2. G Lewis
+Author Affiliations
1. Department of Social Psychiatry, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
AbstractSTUDY OBJECTIVE: Relative risks are frequently assumed to be stable across populations but this may not apply in psychiatric epidemiology where sociocultural context may modify them. Such ecological effect modification will give curved associations between aggregated risk factor and outcome. This was examined in connection with the ecological association between suicide rates and an aggregate index of religiosity. DESIGN: Ecological study of associations between suicide rates and an index of religiosity, adjusted for socioeconomic variation. The effect of stratification of the study sample according to levels of religiosity, was examined. SETTING: 26 European and American countries. SUBJECTS: Interview data from 37,688 people aggregated by country. OUTCOME MEASURES: Age and sex specific (1986-1990) suicide rates. MAIN RESULT: Adjusted for socioeconomic variation, negative associations of male suicide rates with religiosity were apparent in the 13 least religious countries only (test for interaction F (1, 25) = 5.6; p = 0.026). Associations between religiosity and female suicide rates did not vary across countries. CONCLUSION: The bent ecological association was apparent only after adjustment for socioeconomic variation suggesting that, rather than confounding, ecological modification of individual level links between religion and male (but not female) suicide risk is the responsible mechanism. This concurs with micro-level findings suggesting that suicide acceptance depends not only on personal but also on contextual levels of religious belief, and that men are more sensitive to this phenomenon than women. In psychiatric epidemiology, relative risks vary with the exposure's prevalence. This has important implications for research and prevention.
A comparative study of oral health as related to general health, food habits and socioeconomic conditions of 4-year-old Swedish children
1. A.-K. Holm*,
2. H. K:son Blomquist*,
3. C.-G. Crossner*,
4. H. Grahnén*,
5. G. Samuelson*
Article first published online: 29 MAY 2006
DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0528.1975.tb00276.x
Issue
Keywords:
food habits;
health;
oral health;
social conditions
ABSTRACT An epidemiologic study of oral health, food habits and socioeconomic conditions of 187 randomly
selected 4-year-old children was carried out in the city of Umeå in the north of Sweden. The findings were
compared with those in an investigation performed 4 years previously in the same area. The investigation
showed a decrease in caries frequency from 1967 to 1971, which might be explained by the advice which had
been given at Child Health Centers. The food habits had altered, in that there was less between-meal
consumption, particularly of sweets, buns, cakes and soft drinks. Also, increased consumption of fluoride tablets
was noted. Multiple regression analyses confirmed the findings of the 1967 study, namely that a high frequency
of sweets consumption was positively correlated with caries indexes and that children of parents with a higher
educational level had lower caries indexes. It was also found that the Gingival Index was affected by the
frequency of consumption of buns, cakes and soft drinks and by a high number of contacts between the teeth.The Industrial Transformation of Farm Communities: Implications for Family Structure and Socioeconomic Conditions
1. Don E. Albrecht
Article first published online: 27 JAN 2010
DOI: 10.1111/j.1549-0831.1998.tb00664.x
Abstract The industrialization of agriculture has resulted in extensive declines in the number of farms and in the number of people employed in agriculture. For many farm communities, this has resulted in rapid population declines. Other farm communities have been able to attract alternative sources of employment. This study analyzes family structure and socioeconomic conditions in 281 Great Plains counties that were economically dependent on agriculture at one time. Surprisingly, it was found that, while communities remaining agriculturally dependent had extensive population declines, they also had higher rates of employment, lower poverty rates, higher proportions of married couple households, and income levels equal to counties now economically dependent on nonfarm industries. Conditions in counties that have become service based were especially troubling.
Prevalence of Skin Conditions in Primary School Children in Turkey: Differences Based on Socioeconomic Factors
1. Işil İnanir M.D.1,
2. M. Turhan Şahin M.D.1,
3. Kamer Gündüz M.D.1,
4. Gönül Dinç M.D.2,
5. Aylin Türel M.D.1,
6. Serap Öztürkcan M.D.1
Article first published online: 13 SEP 2002
DOI: 10.1046/j.1525-1470.2002.00087.x
Abstract: Skin diseases are associated with environmental factors and a public health approach is particularly
important. We determined the prevalence of skin conditions and associated socioeconomic factors in primary
school children in Turkey. A questionnaire for determining the socioeconomic level and a complete dermatologic
examination were performed in 785 children in two primary schools in different socioeconomic areas of suburban
and central Manisa, Turkey. The study included 345 (43.9%) girls and 440 (56.1%) boys with a mean age of
9.25 ± 1.55 (range 6–14 years). Infectious skin diseases were frequently observed: pediculosis capitis in 74
children (9.4%), scabies in 17 (2.2%), viral skin diseases in 30 (3.8%), and fungal infections in 6 (0.7%). The
other common conditions were melanocytic nevi (14.4%), keratosis pilaris (12.5%), pityriasis alba (12%), xerosis
(11.8%), and atopic dermatitis (6.8%). Pediculosis capitis, acne, and dandruff were more common in girls. The
rate of infections, atopic dermatitis, xerosis, and pityriasis alba were significantly higher in the school children
with poor socioeconomic conditions. Improvement in socioeconomic conditions along with education may be
needed to decrease the prevalence of some of these skin disorders in order to decrease costs related to
treatment.SKIN DISEASE AND SOCIOECONOMIC CONDITIONS IN RURAL AFRICA: TANZANIA
1. SAM GIBBS M.R.C.P., DTM&H*
Article first published online: 31 MAY 2007
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-4362.1996.tb03687.
Abstract
Background. Many skin diseases in developing countries are associated with socioeconomic factors. It is
generally agreed that a public health approach to dermatology in this setting is particularly appropriate; but, there
has been little epidemiologic research done to examine which particular socioeconomic factors are important
determinants of the prevalence of skin disease. This is especially true in sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods. A survey of two villages in Ngara district, North West Tanzania, involved 254 randomly selected
households using a questionnaire, measurements of houses and water quality, and examination of the skin of
1114 household members.
Results. Significant skin disease was encountered in 300 individuals (26.9%). Transmissible diseases comprised
the bulk of skin disease (73.9%) with younger age groups being affected most. Socioeconomic conditions were
poor, with low quality, crowded housing, low levels of literacy, unsatisfactory water sources, and few households
with a regular cash income. Household density was significantly associated with transmissible skin disease.
Other indicators of poverty (e.g., no regular cash income and illiteracy) did not correlate with the prevalence of
skin disease.
Conclusions. Skin disease was highly prevalent in the villages surveyed, especially transmissible diseases in the
younger age groups. Household density was the only socio-economic factor significantly associated with skin
disease. Reduction of household density is an attainable intervention that could reduce the prevalence of skin
disease in rural African populations. Simple studies like this one should be the first step in community
dermatology, assessing the burden of skin disease in communities and looking for particular factors with which
public health interventions could effectively reduce the prevalence of skin disease.
Unfavorable Socioeconomic Conditions in Early Life Presage Expression of Proinflammatory Phenotype in AdolescenceGregory Miller, PhD and Edith Chen, PhD
From the Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Gregory Miller, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4. E-mail:[email protected]
Objective: Unfavorable socioeconomic status (SES) circumstances early in life are associated with heightened vulnerability to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. However, little is known about mechanisms underlying this phenomenon.
Methods: This study examined whether early-life SES predicts future activity of two genes involved in regulating inflammation. An ethnically diverse cohort of 136 adolescent females was enrolled in the study. SES was measured by home ownership. The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) for glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) was quantified in peripheral blood leukocytes using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Results: Three findings emerged: a) Years 2 to 3 of life were a critical period: the participants whose families owned homes during these childhood years showed higher GR mRNA and lower TLR4 mRNA during adolescence, a profile that suggests better regulation of inflammatory responses. b) These effects were not mediated through current economic circumstances, life stress, or health practices. C) Changes in SES during later years were unable to "undo" these effects.
Conclusions: These findings suggest that unfavorable SES circumstances in the early years of life presage the expression of a proinflammatory phenotype in adolescence. To the extent that this proclivity toward inflammation persists over one’s lifespan it could explain the heightened incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular disease in low SES populations.
Designing marine reserves to reflect local socioeconomic conditions: lessons from long-enduring customary management systemsJ. E. Cinner
Abstract
Coral reef conservation strategies such as marine protected areas have met limited success in many developing countries. Some researchers attribute part of these
shortcomings to inadequate attention to the social context of conserving marine resources. To gain insights into applying Western conservation theory more successfully in the socioeconomic context of developing countries, this study examines how long-enduring, customary reef closures appear to reflect local socioeconomic conditions in two Papua New Guinean communities. Attributes of the customary management (including size, shape, permanence, and gear restrictions) are examined in relation to prevailing socioeconomic conditions (including resource users’ ability to switch gears, fishing grounds, and occupations). Customary closures in the two communities appear to reflect local socioeconomic circumstances in three ways. First, in situations where people can readily switch between occupations, full closures are acceptable with periodic harvests to benefit from the closure. In comparison, communities with high dependence on the marine resources are more conducive to employing strategies that restrict certain gear types while still allowing others. Second, where there is multiple clan and family spatial ownership of resources, the communities have one closure per clan/family; one large no-take area would have disproportionate affect on those compared to the rest of the community. In contrast, communities that have joint ownership can establish one large closure as long as there are other areas available to harvest. Third, historical and trade relationships with neighboring communities can influence regulations by creating the need for occasional harvests to provide fish for feasts. This study further demonstrates the importance of understanding the socioeconomic context of factors such as community governance and levels of dependence for the conservation of marine resources.
Keywords Coral reef - Socioeconomic - Customary management - Marine protected areas - Marine tenure
Communicated by Guest Editor R. Pollnac.
Rise in the Incidence of Viral Hepatitis in Israel Despite Improved Socioeconomic Conditions
1. Manfred S. Green, 2. Colin Block, and 3. Paul E. Slater
+Author Affiliations
1. Medical Corps, Israel Defence Force2. Department of Epidemiology, Israel Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
Abstract
The incidence of viral hepatitis (mostly type A) in Israel, an area highly endemic for the disease, was examined between 1951 and 1985. During a period of improved standards of living, the overall reported incidence of the disease increased. In the Jewish population, the age of peak incidence shifted from 1–4 y to 5–9 y; this change is compatible with improved sanitation. However, whereas the absolute incidence declined among children 1–4 y old, it doubled among those 5–9 y old over the same period. The peak incidence in the non-Jewish population remains in children 1–4 y old. One possible explanation for the rise in overall incidence is an increase in the ratio of clinical to subclinical infections due to a shift of peak incidence to an older age group. Seasonal patterns have persisted against a background of changing morbidity, with the maximal
incidence from late summer to midwinter. An unexplained, consistent excess incidence among males is observed for all age groups.
Received January 13, 1988. Revision received October 13, 1988.
© 1989 by The University of Chicago
Effects of different socioeconomic conditions on menarche in Turkish female students
B. Ersoy
,
C. Balkan
,
T. Gunay
,
A. Onag
,
A. Egemen
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the age at menarche, the menarcheal features, and the association between menarcheal age and socioeconomic status in an urban area in Turkey. In addition, we tried to assess whether there is a relationship between age at menarche and body composition. Methods: We asked some questions about menarche of 1017 female adolescent students in the high schools of Manisa region. Height and weight were measured. The body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) was used as an index of relative weight. Adolescent girls were grouped into three socioeconomic status according to the educational and occupational levels of their parents. The age at menarche and the menarcheal pattern were evaluated according to the socioeconomic status. Results: The ages of girls involved in the study ranged between 14 and 18 years, with a mean of 15.7±1.1 years. Although the menarcheal age was found to be lower in girls with higher socioeconomic status, there was no significant difference between the three different socioeconomic status. In all of the three groups, menarche was more common in summer and fall than in spring and winter. Although the mother was an important source of knowledge in all groups, it was significantly more important in the group with high socioeconomic status. Adolescent girls with low socioeconomic status had fewer premenstrual complaints. However, there was no significant difference between the groups. We found an inverse correlation between menarcheal age and postmenarcheal weight and the BMI (r=−0.14, p=0.000). However, there was no correlation between menarcheal age and postmenarcheal height. Conclusion: These results indicate that as the social status differences decrease, the difference observed in menarcheal age and pattern disappears in urban areas of developing countries. Menarcheal age may be an indicator of socioeconomic development. It does not influence postmenarcheal height; however, as menarcheal age decreases, BMI increases.An epidemiological study of mental health and socioeconomic conditions in Sumatera, Indonesia
1. E. Bahar1,
2. A. S. Henderson2,*,
3. A. J. Mackinnon2
Article first published online: 23 AUG 2007
DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0447.1992.tb01466.x
Abstract
A mental health survey was conducted in Palembang, Indonesia, to test the hypothesis that rapid socioeconomic
and cultural change is detrimental to mental health. The 30-item General Health Questionnaire, translated into
Bahasa Indonesia, was administered to a probability sample of 1670 adults (94.9% of the target sample). The
Present State Examination was conducted on a weighted subsample of 100, using a 2-phase design. Overall
morbidity rates were surprisingly similar to those in industrialized countries. A strong association was found
between psychological symptoms and poverty. Persons belonging to communities that had progressed
substantially in standards of living had fewer symptoms. The evidence points to a possibly beneficial effect of
economic progress on mental health. Longitudinal data are needed to confirm this.
Journal of Nervous & Mental Disease:
May 2009 - Volume 197 - Issue 5 - pp 316-323
doi: 10.1097/NMD.0b013e3181a206f7
Original Article
Impact of Exposure to Trauma on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptomatology in Swedish Tourist Tsunami SurvivorsJohannesson, Kerstin Bergh PsyD*; Michel, Per-Olof MD, PhD*; Hultman, Christina M. PsyD, PhD†; Lindam, Anna MA*; Arnberg, Filip PsyD*; Lundin, Tom MD, PhD*
Abstract
The aim was to examine long-term mental health and posttraumatic stress symptomatology in a Swedish tourist population after exposure to the 2004 Southeast Asian tsunami. Data from 4822 returned questionnaires 14 months after the disaster were analyzed. Respondents were categorized into 3 subgroups: (1) danger-to-life exposure group (having been caught or chased by the waves), (2) nondanger-to-life exposure group (exposed to other disaster-related stressors), and (3) low exposure group. Main outcome measures were General Health Questionnaire-12 and Impact of Event Scale-22-Revised. Danger-to-life exposure was an important factor in causing more severe posttraumatic stress symptoms and in affecting mental health. Female gender, single status, and former trauma experiences were associated with greater distress. Other factors related to more severe symptoms were loss of relatives, physical injuries, viewing many dead bodies, experiencing life threat, and showing signs of cognitive confusion. Disaster exposure has a substantial impact on survivors, which stresses the need for long-lasting support
Journal of Nervous & Mental Disease:
December 2009 - Volume iii-x - Issue 12 - pp 918-922
doi: 10.1097/NMD.0b013e3181c29a60
Original Article
Psychological Distress and Sick Leave in Swedish Survivors of the 2004 Tsunami: A Comparison With a Population SampleWahlström, Lars MD*; Michélsen, Hans PhD, PsyD*; Schulman, Abbe PhD, MD*; Backheden, Magnus MS†
Abstract
Disaster studies of the effects of trauma exposure on subsequent psychological health have seldom used population comparisons. A total of 1463 tsunami survivors from Stockholm were categorized according to type of exposure, and compared on measures of General Health Questionnaire and sick leave, with a matched population-based sample of 12,045 individuals from the same region. Data from the survivor group were obtained through a postal questionnaire 14 months postdisaster. Data from the population sample were collected in the same year. In comparison to the population sample, levels of sick leave ranged from higher in multiply exposed groups to lower in the least exposed group. For psychological distress, levels in multiply and moderately exposed groups were higher, and in lower exposed groups comparable. The use of a population comparison resulted in a support of recent research showing a relative resiliency of survivors exposed during disaster to potential trauma of lesser severity.
Elizabeth Frankenberg, Jed Friedman, Thomas Gillespie, Nicholas Ingwersen, Robert Pynoos, Iip Umar Rifai,Bondan Sikoki, Alan Steinberg, Cecep Sumantri, Wayan Suriastini, and Duncan Thomas. Mental Health in Sumatra After the Tsunami. American Journal of Public Health: September 2008, Vol. 98, No. 9, pp. 1671-1677.
doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2007.120915
Accepted on: Jan 14, 2008
Mental Health in Sumatra After the Tsunami
Elizabeth Frankenberg, PhD, MPA, Jed Friedman, PhD, Thomas Gillespie, PhD, Nicholas Ingwersen, BA, Robert Pynoos, MD, MPH, Iip Umar Rifai, AMa, Bondan Sikoki, MA, Alan Steinberg, PhD, Cecep Sumantri, MPH, Wayan Suriastini, MA, and Duncan Thomas, PhD
Elizabeth Frankenberg and Duncan Thomas are with Duke University, Durham, NC. Jed Friedman and Nicholas Ingwersen are with the World Bank, Washington, DC. Thomas Gillespie, Robert Pynoos, and Alan Steinberg are with University of California, Los Angeles. Iip Umar Rifai, Bondan Sikoki, Cecep Sumantri, and Wayan Suriastini are with SurveyMETER, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
Peer Reviewed
Contributors E. Frankenberg and D. Thomas developed the survey and study, conducted data analyses and drafted the article. J. Friedman, N. Ingwersen, I. U. Rifai, B. Sikoki, C. Sumantri, and W. Suriastini designed and implemented the survey. T. Gillespie developed the indicator of tsunami damage. R. Pynoos and A. Steinberg helped
conceptualize the measures of posttraumatic stress reactivity. All of the authors contributed to the interpretation of results and to article revisions.
ABSTRACT
Objectives. We assessed the levels and correlates of posttraumatic stress reactivity (PTSR) of more than 20000 adult tsunami survivors by analyzing survey data from coastal Aceh and North Sumatra, Indonesia.
Methods. A population-representative sample of individuals interviewed before the tsunami was traced in 2005 to 2006. We constructed 2 scales measuring PTSR by using 7 symptom items from the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist–Civilian Version. One scale measured PTSR at the time of interview, and the other measured PTSR at the point of maximum intensity since the disaster.
Results. PTSR scores were highest for respondents from heavily damaged areas. In all areas, scores declined over time. Gender and age were significant predictors of PTSR; markers of socioeconomic status before the tsunami were not. Exposure to traumatic events, loss of kin, and property damage were significantly associated with higher PTSR scores.
Conclusions. The tsunami produced posttraumatic stress reactions across a wide region of Aceh and North Sumatra. Public health will be enhanced by the provision of counseling services that reach not only people directly affected by the tsunami but also those living beyond the area of immediate impact.
Risk factors of post-traumatic stress disorder in tsunami survivors of Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India
TT Pyari1, Raman V Kutty2, PS Sarma2
1 Assistant Director, Kerala Health Services, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India2 Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and
Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Abstract
Context: In this study, we assessed the relation of possible risk factors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the survivors of December 2004 tsunami in Kanyakumari district.Materials and Methods: We identified cases (n=158) and controls (n=141) by screening a random sample of 485 tsunami survivors from June 2005 to October 2005 using a validated tool, "Impact of events scale-revised (IES-R)," for symptoms suggestive of PTSD. Subjects whose score was equal to or above the 70 th percentile (total score 48) were cases and those who had score below or equal to 30 th percentile (total score 33) were controls. Analysis was done using statistical package for the social sciences to find the risk factors of PTSD among various pre-disaster, within-disaster and post-disaster factors.Results: Multivariate analysis showed that PTSD was related to female gender [odds ratio (OR) 6.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.26-12.39], age 40 years and above (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.23-4.63), injury to self (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.55-5.67), injury to family members (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.05-4.15), residence in urban area (area of maximum destruction) (OR 3.37, 95% CI 1.35-8.41) and death of close relatives (OR 3.83, 95% CI 1.91-7.68). Absence of fear of recurrence of tsunami (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.17-0.60), satisfaction of services received (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36-0.92) and counseling services received more than three times (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.26-0.78) had protective effect against PTSD.Conclusions: There is an association of pre-disaster, within-disaster and post-disaster factors with PTSD, which demands specific interventions at all phases of disaster, with a special focus on vulnerable groups.
Keywords: Post-traumatic stress disorder, risk factors, tsunami
Original Research and Critical Analysis
Prevalence of and Sex Disparities in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in an Internally Displaced Sri Lankan Population 6 Months After the 2004 Tsunami
Padmini D. Ranasinghe, MD, MPH and Becca R. Levy, PhD
Background: When the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami suddenly hit unsuspecting coastal
populations in Sri Lanka, it inflicted unprecedented devastation including 35,000 deaths
and 500,000 people displaced. Evaluating the psychological impact of this natural
disaster provides valuable insights into planning interventions and disaster preparedness.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 264 adult males and females
16 years old living in temporary shelters housing tsunami survivors at 6 months.
Interviewer-administered structured interviews were conducted to measure
posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its risk factors.
Results: The participation rate was 97%. Of the subjects, 56% met criteria for symptoms
of PTSD, with females at 64% and males at 42%. Females had at least twice the risk of
experiencing PTSD (odds ratio [OR] 2.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–3.76). This
sex difference persisted after adjusting for age, marital status, being a parent, loss of
family members, amount of social support, education level, and level of depression (OR
2.14, 95% CI 1.21–3.80). Depression was significantly associated with PTSD (OR 7.19,
95% CI 3.83–13.52).
Conclusions: In this directly affected population, a majority met criteria for PTSD,
indicating a significant long-term public health burden. The findings also confirm that
females are at much higher risk for PTSD than males, suggesting that special mental
health efforts should be targeted at women exposed to trauma.
Key Words: posttraumatic stress disorder • tsunami • Sri Lanka
Research article
Are the elderly more vulnerable to psychological impact of natural disaster? A population-based survey of adult survivors of the 2008 Sichuan earthquakeZhaobao Jia1, Wenhua Tian1*, Weizhi Liu2, Yang Cao3, Jin Yan2 and Zhisheng Shun4
*Corresponding author: Wenhua Tian [email protected]
Author Affiliations1Faculty of Health Service, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China2Department of Psychology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China3Department of Health Statistics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China4Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan
province, China
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BMC Public Health 2010, 10:172 doi:10.1186/1471-2458-10-172
The electronic version of this article is the complete one and can be found online
at:http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2458/10/172
Received:
29 December 2009
Accepted: 30 March 2010
Published: 30 March 2010
© 2010 Jia et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License
(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and
reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Abstract
BackgroundThe association between ages and psychological impact of natural disasters has not been well
characterized. A population-based study was conducted 15 months after the 2008 Sichuan earthquake to
assess whether elderly survivors were more likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and
general psychiatric morbidity.
MethodsA population-based survey of 327 survivors (152 elders, 175 younger adults) was conducted in severely
affected areas by the earthquake, using a multi-stage systematic sampling design.
ResultsCompared with the younger adult survivors, the elderly were more likely to have symptoms of PTSD
(22.5% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.001) and general psychiatric morbidity (42.0% vs. 25.4%, p = 0.003). Risk
factors, such as being elderly, having been in serious danger, having lost family members, and having
felt guilt concerning one's death or injury were significantly associated with developing PTSD; being
elderly, having family members or friends seriously injured, and having felt guilt concerning one's death
or injury were significantly associated with developing general psychiatric morbidity. Utilization of mental
health services is strongly associated with the decreased risk for developing both of the symptoms.
ConclusionCompared with the younger adults, the elderly survivors were more likely to develop PTSD and general
psychiatric morbidity. More mental health services should be distributed to the elderly and groups at
particular risk, to ensure their smooth mental health reconstruction after the earthquake.
Social Indicators Affecting Post-Tsunami Trauma of Survivors
1. Damodar Suar 1. Damodar Suar is Professor and Head, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT
Kharagpur, West Bengal. E-mail: [email protected]. Namita Das
1. Namita Das is Lecturer, Centre of Advanced Study in Psychology, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa. E-mail:[email protected]
1. Laxmi Bilash Hota 1. Laxmi Bilash Hota is Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Management, Konark
Institute of Science and Technology, Khudra, Orissa. E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
The study examines whether widow/widower status, educational level and family income influence post-tsunami trauma of survivors. The data were collected 14 months after the tsunami from 416 adult survivors in nine semi-urban habitations of Nagapattinam district in the state of Tamilnadu (India). Post-tsunami trauma was assessed using inventories of post-traumatic stress, depression, negative and positive affectivity, physical health symptoms and anxiety. Post-tsunami trauma of survivors has increased with increasing age, female gender and more exposure. Controlling the confounding effects of age, gender, and exposure; widow/widower status, illiteracy and lower family income are found to intensify trauma and are the risk factors for post-tsunami morbidity. Only illiterates do not report more physical health symptoms than literates, and lower family income neither heightens depression and negative affectivity nor lessens positive affectivity.
Impact of Exposure to Trauma on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptomatology in Swedish Tourist Tsunami SurvivorsJohannesson, Kerstin Bergh PsyD*; Michel, Per-Olof MD, PhD*; Hultman, Christina M. PsyD, PhD†; Lindam, Anna MA*; Arnberg, Filip PsyD*; Lundin, Tom MD, PhD*
Abstract
The aim was to examine long-term mental health and posttraumatic stress symptomatology in a Swedish tourist population after exposure to the 2004 Southeast Asian tsunami. Data from 4822 returned questionnaires 14 months after the disaster were analyzed. Respondents were categorized into 3 subgroups: (1) danger-to-life exposure group (having been caught or chased by the waves), (2) nondanger-to-life exposure group (exposed to other disaster-related stressors), and (3) low exposure group. Main outcome measures were General Health Questionnaire-12 and Impact of Event Scale-22-Revised. Danger-to-life exposure was an important factor in causing more severe posttraumatic stress symptoms and in affecting mental health. Female gender, single status, and former trauma experiences were associated with greater distress. Other factors related to more severe symptoms were loss of relatives, physical injuries, viewing many dead bodies, experiencing life threat, and showing signs of cognitive confusion. Disaster exposure has a substantial impact on survivors, which stresses the need for long-lasting support.
The Impact of Disasters on Populations With Health and Health Care Disparities
Jennifer R. Davis, MSPH, Sacoby Wilson, PhD, Amy Brock-Martin, DrPH, Saundra Glover, PhD, and Erik R. Svendsen, PhD
Affiliations: Departments of Epidemiology and Biostatistics (Ms Davis and Drs Wilson and Svendsen) and Health Services, Policy, and Management (Drs Brock-Martin and Glover); Institute for Families in Society (Dr Wilson); South Carolina Rural Health Research Center (Drs Brock-Martin and Glover); and Institute for the Partnership to Eliminate Health Disparities (Dr Glover), University of South Carolina, Columbia; and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Columbia (Dr Svendsen).
Correspondence: Jennifer Davis, MSPH, Dept of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 800 Sumter St, Suite 210, Columbia, SC 29208 (Email: davisjr6/at/gmail.com)
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Abstract
Context
A disaster is indiscriminate in whom it affects. Limited research has shown that the poor
and medically underserved, especially in rural areas, bear an inequitable amount of the
burden.
Objective
To review the literature on the combined effects of a disaster and living in an area with
existing health or health care disparities on a community’s health, access to health
resources, and quality of life.
Methods
We performed a systematic literature review using the following search terms: disaster,
health disparities, health care disparities, medically underserved, and rural. Our inclusion
criteria were peer-reviewed, US studies that discussed the delayed or persistent health
effects of disasters in medically underserved areas.
Results
There has been extensive research published on disasters, health disparities, health
care disparities, and medically underserved populations individually, but not collectively.
Conclusions
The current literature does not capture the strain of health and health care disparities
before and after a disaster in medically underserved communities. Future disaster
studies and policies should account for differences in health profiles and access to care
before and after a disaster.
Keywords: disaster, health disparities, health care disparities, medically underserved, surge
capacity
Resourcing for post-disaster reconstruction: a comparative study of Indonesia and China
Document Information:
Title: Resourcing for post-disaster reconstruction: a comparative study of Indonesia and China
Author(s): Yan Chang, (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand), Suzanne Wilkinson, (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand), Regan Potangaroa, (School of Architecture (ScALA), UNITEC, Auckland, New Zealand), Erica Seville, (Department of Civil Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand)
Citation: Yan Chang, Suzanne Wilkinson, Regan Potangaroa, Erica Seville, (2012) "Resourcing for post-disaster reconstruction: a comparative study of Indonesia and China", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 21 Iss: 1, pp.7 - 21
Keywords: China, Comparative study, Disaster management, Disaster reconstruction, Indonesia, Resource allocation, Resource management,Resourcing
Article type: Research paper
DOI: 10.1108/09653561211202674 (Permanent URL)
Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Acknowledgements: As part of Resilient Organisations research program (2004-2010) (www.resorgs.org.nz), the research was supported by the Foundation of Research Science and Technology (FRST). The authors wish to thank CARE International in Indonesia, Construction Bureau of People's Government of Mianzhu in Sichuan Province, and Sichuan University in China for their assistance in data collection for this study. The authors would like to thank the reviewer(s) for providing insightful comments to improve the quality of the paper.
Abstract: Purpose – There is a need to understand resourcing issues when reconstructing the built environment in a post-disaster situation. The purpose of this paper is to determine the resourcing difficulties that are likely to face the international practitioners in post-disaster reconstruction by identifying and comparing the factors that affected resource availability following natural disasters in Indonesia and China respectively.
Design/methodology/approach – The research methodology included field-based questionnaire surveys, semi-structured interviews and observations. A comparative analysis was used to extract similarities and differences with regard to resourcing approaches in Indonesia and China.
Findings – Despite the different resourcing approaches adopted in Indonesia and China in their recovery from large-scale disasters, there are common issues facing post-disaster reconstruction stakeholders, including competence of the implementing agencies, capacity of transportation, governance and legislation, and market conditions. Specifically, community-related housing features played a dominant role in donor-driven resourcing practice in post-Indian Ocean tsunami reconstruction in Indonesia, whereas factors related to project control and management primarily contributed to resourcing performance of Chinese reconstruction specialists following the Wenchuan earthquake.
Research limitations/implications – To solve resourcing problems, countries need to create an enabling environment and build institutional capacity. The cross-cultural comparative analysis encourages policy makers and practitioners to exchange experiences from recent recovery operations.
Originality/value – The paper illustrates the infrastructural and institutional weaknesses that hindered effective resource procurement during post-disaster reconstruction in Indonesia and China. The research findings show common areas in need of
improvement in other disaster prone countries, along with the issues to be addressed in the donor-led or contractor-led resourcing practice in the two studied countries.
Process, practice and priorities — key lessons learnt undertaking sensitive social reconnaissance research as part of an (UNESCO-IOC) International Tsunami Survey Team
Shona L. van Zijll de Jonga, , ,
Dale Dominey-Howesb,
Carolina E. Romanb, c,
Emma Calgarob, d,
Anna Gerob,
Siri Velandb, d,
Deanne K. Birde, f,
Tolu Muliainag,
Dawn Tuiloma-Suah,
Taulagi Latu Afiogai
a National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), Private Bag 14–901, Wellington 6241,
New Zealand
b Australian Tsunami Research Centre and Natural Hazards Research Laboratory, University of New South
Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
c School of Geography and Environmental Science, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3800, Australia
d Department of Environment and Geography, Macquarie University, North Ryde NSW 2109, Australia
e Department of Geography and Tourism, Earth Science Institute, Faculty of Life and Environmental
Sciences, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
f Risk Frontiers, Department of Environment and Geography, Macquarie University, North Ryde NSW
2109, Australia
g Division of Geography, School of Islands and Oceans, The University of the South Pacific, Suva, Fiji
h Disaster Management Office. Ministry of Natural Resources, and Environment, Meteorology Division,
Government of Samoa, Private Bag, Apia, Samoa
i Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, Division for Internal Affairs Government of
Samoa, Private Bag, Apia, Samoa
Received 6 August 2010. Accepted 2 March 2011. Available online 9 March 2011.
Abstract
The 29 September 2009 South Pacific tsunami has had a lasting impact upon local
coastal villages and global collaborative research efforts. Locally, the impact of
the tsunami is one of the most severe disasters Samoa has experienced in the last
several decades. Within one week of the event, 143 people died. Approximately 6000
traumatized men, women and children – terrified of the sea – refused to return to live or
work in their rural, coastal villages, which in turn has had broad consequences for
humanitarian emergency relief distribution networks and early recovery planning efforts.
Researchers came from all over the world to participate in the UNESCO International
Oceanographic Commission (IOC) Samoa International Tsunami Survey Team (ITST).
Focusing on the need for interdisciplinary research, for the first time, a social impact
assessment team (SIT) was expressly invited to participate. Within days of the tsunami, a
group of Australian, New Zealand, American, Fijian, and Japanese disaster researchers
began to discuss how they might develop a social science reconnaissance research plan
using innovative approaches and best practice.
This paper presents an overview of challenges faced by the social impact assessment
team with a focus on lessons to be learnt from this experience. We discuss the need to
clarify project boundaries, develop a core research agenda and project milestones, and
develop day-to-day fieldwork work plans and at the same time be sensitive to the
emotional needs of the interviewees as well as the researchers. We also make several
practical suggestions for future social reconnaissance research with a set of
recommendations to support disaster researchers as they plan their own research
projects.
The inclusion of a social impacts assessment group within a UNESCO-IOC ITST was a
valuable response to the increasing need for responsible social research in sensitive
topics of post-disaster analysis. Social scientists are aware that disaster social science
research should not be a risk to the public, and that misconduct in such work should be
avoided as far as possible. We believe that the inclusion of social science experts will
revolutionise conceptual, methodological and empirical approaches in future ITSTs. Social
scientists will provide unprecedented volumes of high quality information on post-
disaster movements, communication and response activities by individuals,
communities, private and public sectors — because social scientists are concerned about
the integrity of the research process and results. Building upon our experiences, future
ITSTs may tap into the potential that social science has to transform ITST's capacity to
gather information about disaster preparedness, what tsunamisurvivors saw, heard and
experienced, and to reconstruct the socio-economic and political dynamics of affected
communities.
This paper contributes to the limited literature that outlines how to develop responsible
plans and processes for post-tsunami disaster work; and, it furthers a line of inquiry
applicable to a wide variety of hazards, such as flooding, cyclones, earthquakes,
bushfires, pandemics and terrorism.
Keywords
Samoa;
post-disaster research;
sensitive social science reconnaissance research;
participatory action research;
research integrity;
International Tsunami Survey Teams