Perspectives on early insights: pediatric cancer caregiving amidst natural calamities - A call for future preparedness.

Journal: Frontiers in public health

Volume: 11

Issue: 

Year of Publication: 2024

Affiliated Institutions:  Fondazione Soleterre Strategie di Pace ONLUS, Milan, Lombardy, Italy. Psychology of Trauma Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Lombardy, Italy. Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Mohammed VI, Marrakesh, Morocco. Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Lombardy, Italy. Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy.

Abstract summary 

Natural disasters cause immense damage and disruption to the environment, human lives, and property, posing a threat to safety and well-being. These disasters annually affect individuals and communities, severely impacting mental health. Research indicates a significant link between catastrophic events and an increased risk of mental disorders, including anxiety, depression, substance use, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals with chronic conditions, like cancer patients, are particularly vulnerable post-disaster due to disrupted healthcare services. The recent earthquake in Morocco highlighted the urgent need for continued care, especially for vulnerable populations living in poverty. Soleterre Foundation's interventions focus on supporting young cancer patients and their families, emphasizing psychological support following the earthquake. Effective disaster response needs coordinated efforts, clear roles, communication, and standardized healthcare procedures, especially for vulnerable groups like cancer patients. Education programs for patients and clinicians are vital for disaster preparedness. Communication challenges and lack of medical history further emphasize the need for well-defined disaster preparedness plans and continued care guidelines for cancer patients.

Authors & Co-authors:  Rizzi Damiano D Ciuffo Giulia G El Gour Firdaous F Erradi Jinane J Barone Lavinia L Ionio Chiara C

Study Outcome 

Source Link: Visit source

Statistics
Citations :  WHO/EHA . Disasters & Emergencies Definitions Training Package. Addis Ababa: Panafrican Emergency Training Centre. (2022).
Authors :  6
Identifiers
Doi : 1319850
SSN : 2296-2565
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Child
Other Terms
Morocco;cancer;earthquake;healthcare;mental health;natural disaster
Study Design
Study Approach
Country of Study
Morocco
Publication Country
Switzerland