Site icon Trend Bulletin

How does flood exposure affect mortality risks in the long term and which specific causes are most impacted?

Divya
How does flood exposure affect mortality risks in the long term and which specific causes are most impacted?

Absolute mortality risk. average annual expected mortality, Relative mortality risk. measured as the average annual expected number of deaths as a proportion of national population. The geographical distribution of flood mortality risk mirrors that for exposure. It is heavily concentrated in Asia, especially in India, Bangladesh and China. Between them these countries concentrate 75% of the modeled annual global mortality. The top ten most exposed countries – in absolute and relative terms – are in South and South-East Asia, where a number of heavily populated river deltas and watersheds are located. Mortality from flood events 19 is closely associated to the size and growth rate of exposed rural populations. Flood mortality risk is thus highest in heavily populated rural areas in countries with weak governance. Source: Chapter 2 Global disaster risk: patterns, trends and drivers.

Living in flood-prone areas may increase your risk of death

A recent study published in BMC Medicine has found that long-term exposure to flooding can increase the risk of death from a variety of causes. The study, which was conducted in the United Kingdom, found that people who lived in areas that had been flooded in the past were more likely to die from heart disease, cancer, respiratory disease, and other causes.

What are the risks?

The study found that the risk of death from any cause was 6.7% higher for people who lived in areas that had been flooded in the past, compared to people who lived in areas that had not been flooded. The risk of death from heart disease was 10% higher, the risk of death from cancer was 11% higher, and the risk of death from respiratory disease was 12% higher.

The study also found that the risk of death was higher for people who had been exposed to flooding more recently. The risk of death from any cause was 12% higher for people who had been exposed to flooding within the past year, compared to people who had not been exposed to flooding within the past year.

Who is most at risk?

The study found that the risk of death from flooding was higher for people who were older, had lower incomes, and had less education. The risk was also higher for people who were obese, smoked, and drank alcohol.

What can be done to reduce the risk?

There are a number of things that can be done to reduce the risk of death from flooding. These include:

Conclusion

Flooding is a serious hazard that can have a devastating impact on people’s lives. The study’s findings suggest that long-term exposure to flooding can increase the risk of death from a variety of causes. It is important to be aware of the risks of flooding and take steps to protect yourself and your family.

also read:‘Havana Syndrome’: Long-term Impacts on Affected Individuals

Exit mobile version