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Schulte PA, Jacklitsch BL, Bhattacharya A, Chun H, Edwards N, Elliott KC, Flynn MA, Guerin R, Hodson L, Lincoln JM, MacMahon KL, Pendergrass S, Siven J, Vietas J. Updated assessment of occupational safety and health hazards of climate change. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2023; 20:183-206. [PMID: 37104117 PMCID: PMC10443088 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2205468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Workers, particularly outdoor workers, are among the populations most disproportionately affected by climate-related hazards. However, scientific research and control actions to comprehensively address these hazards are notably absent. To assess this absence, a seven-category framework was developed in 2009 to characterize the scientific literature published from 1988-2008. Using this framework, a second assessment examined the literature published through 2014, and the current one examines literature from 2014-2021. The objectives were to present literature that updates the framework and related topics and increases awareness of the role of climate change in occupational safety and health. In general, there is substantial literature on worker hazards related to ambient temperatures, biological hazards, and extreme weather but less on air pollution, ultraviolet radiation, industrial transitions, and the built environment. There is growing literature on mental health and health equity issues related to climate change, but much more research is needed. The socioeconomic impacts of climate change also require more research. This study illustrates that workers are experiencing increased morbidity and mortality related to climate change. In all areas of climate-related worker risk, including geoengineering, research is needed on the causality and prevalence of hazards, along with surveillance to identify, and interventions for hazard prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. A. Schulte
- Advanced Technologies and Laboratories International, Inc, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - B. L. Jacklitsch
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - A. Bhattacharya
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - H. Chun
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID), Atlanta, Georgia
| | - N. Edwards
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - K. C. Elliott
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Anchorage, Alaska
| | - M. A. Flynn
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - R. Guerin
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - L. Hodson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) (retired), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - J. M. Lincoln
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - K. L. MacMahon
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - S. Pendergrass
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) (retired), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - J. Siven
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - J. Vietas
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio
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Crompton D, Kohleis P, Shakespeare-Finch J, FitzGerald G, Young R. Opportunistic Mental Health Screening: Is there a Role Following a Disaster? Lessons from the 2010-2011 Queensland (Australia) Floods and Cyclones. Prehosp Disaster Med 2023; 38:223-231. [PMID: 36691688 PMCID: PMC10027488 DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x23000092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following the 2010-2011 floods and cyclones that affected 78% of Queensland, Australia, a State-wide mental health response was established. The response plan included a 24-hour access line. This study examines the effectiveness of the mental health screening program conducted via the State-wide health call center (13HEALTH) in 2012. METHODS Callers to the 13HEALTH line were screened to assess the impact of the disaster. The 13HEALTH clinicians administered the Primary Care-Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Scale (PC-PTSD) screening measure. Those scoring more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale were provided information on the emotional impact of disasters and a referral to the post-disaster specialist mental health program (SMHP). For calls related to those under 18, a single-item question assessed behavioral or emotional changes since the natural disasters. Those with identified changes were offered a referral to a post-disaster SMHP.The study evaluates the relationship between disaster exposure and the likelihood of 13HEALTH callers experiencing physical health concerns and unacknowledged mental health symptoms. The program's cost for the 12 months of 2012 was assessed using data from the financial contract. RESULTS In 2012, there were 205,064 calls to 13HEALTH: 19,708 identified as residing in a flood or cyclone-affected area, 7,315 adults indicated they were personally affected, and 907 scored more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale. Only 700 agreed to a referral to the SMHP. There were 290 children under 18 assessed as at risk; 207 accepted a referral to a SMHP.Regions that experienced a greater impact from the floods and cyclones were 1.3-2.3 times more likely to report being personally affected by the floods and cyclones. Similarly, these regions had more callers scoring more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale. The total cost of the 13HEALTH program for 2012 was $53,284 (AU) across all age groups. CONCLUSION The 13HEALTH general health post-disaster screening program demonstrates opportunistic screening may assist identification of those with unmet mental health needs. The data indicate an increased likelihood of personal exposure in the more affected regions with an increased risk of unrecognized psychological symptoms as assessed by the PC-PTSD Scale. However, more than 20% declined referral to a SMHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Crompton
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter Kohleis
- Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Gerard FitzGerald
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ross Young
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
- University Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
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3
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Dickey S, Krienke L, Rosemberg MA, Bell SA. Home-Based Care and Mental Health during a Disaster: A Qualitative Analysis. J Appl Gerontol 2023; 42:213-220. [PMID: 36134693 PMCID: PMC9840644 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221128559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Disasters adversely affect individuals' mental health; yet, research is scant on the mental health needs of frontline workers during and immediately after disasters. Our study explored this gap through the perspectives of home-based care providers (HBCP) who provided care during and after Hurricanes Irma and Harvey. In this qualitative study, five in-person focus groups were held between January and November 2019 with 25 HBCP drawn from home health care agencies in southern Florida and the Greater Houston Area. Four themes were identified using an abductive analytic approach: HBCPs' disaster-related mental health needs; HBCP resilience in the context of disaster; psychological tensions associated with simultaneously caring for self, family, and patients; and supporting patients' mental health needs during and after disaster. Our data suggest that HBCP may benefit from formal training and interventions to support their own mental health as well as that of their patients in the context of disasters.
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Choi KW, Nishimi K, Jha SC, Sampson L, Hahn J, Kang JH, Koenen KC, Kubzansky LD. Pre-pandemic resilience to trauma and mental health outcomes during COVID-19. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2023; 58:453-465. [PMID: 36169684 PMCID: PMC9514982 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-022-02367-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The stress-sensitization hypothesis posits that individuals with prior trauma are at elevated risk for poor mental health when faced with subsequent stressors. Little work has examined whether those who have demonstrated psychological resilience to prior trauma would show either increased resilience or vulnerability to subsequent stressors. We examined pre-pandemic psychological resilience to lifetime trauma in relation to mental health outcomes amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a major societal stressor. METHODS The sample included 16,900 trauma-exposed women from the Nurses' Health Study II. Pre-pandemic resilience was defined by psychological health in 2017-2019 (characterized by levels of both distress and positive emotional well-being) relative to lifetime trauma. Resilience was defined categorically by cross-classifying unfavorable, adequate, and favorable psychological health by higher versus lower trauma burden, and continuously as the residual difference in predicted versus actual psychological health regressed on trauma burden. Mental health outcomes as of May-August 2020 included psychological distress symptoms and overall positive emotional well-being. Associations were assessed using covariate-adjusted regression models. RESULTS Pre-pandemic resilience was associated with lower distress and higher well-being early in the COVID-19 pandemic. Relative to the women showing highest resilience (favorable psychological health despite higher trauma), only those with lower trauma and favorable prior psychological health had significantly lower distress and higher positive emotional well-being during the pandemic. Higher continuous pre-pandemic resilience was also significantly associated with lower distress and higher positive emotional well-being during the pandemic. CONCLUSION Preventing mental health problems following trauma may contribute to protecting population well-being amid major stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karmel W. Choi
- Center for Precision Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA ,Psychiatric & Neurodevelopment Genetics Unit, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Kristen Nishimi
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Shaili C. Jha
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Laura Sampson
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Jill Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Jae H. Kang
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Karestan C. Koenen
- Center for Precision Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA ,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA ,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Laura D. Kubzansky
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Lee Kum Sheung Center for Health and Happiness, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
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Wang JH, Denic-Roberts H, Goodie JL, Thomas DL, Engel LS, Rusiecki JA. Risk factors for acute mental health symptoms and tobacco initiation in Coast Guard Responders to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:1099-1114. [PMID: 35290683 PMCID: PMC9355914 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Acute mental health symptoms experienced during oil spill response work are understudied, especially among nonlocal responders. We assessed potential risk factors for acute mental health symptoms and tobacco initiation among U.S. Coast Guard responders to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill who completed a deployment exit survey. Cross-sectional associations among responder characteristics, deployment-related stressors (deployment duration, timing, crude oil exposure, physical symptoms, injuries), and professional help-seeking for stressors experienced with concurrent depression/anxiety and tobacco initiation were examined. Log-binomial regression was used to calculate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) and 95% confidence intervals. Sensitivity analyses excluded responders with a history of mental health conditions using health encounter data from the Military Health System Data Repository. Of the 4,855 responders, 75.5% were deployed from nonlocal/non-Gulf home stations, 5.8% reported concurrent depression and anxiety, and 2.8% reported the initiation of any tobacco product during oil spill response. Self-report of concurrent depression and anxiety was more prevalent among female responders and positively associated with longer deployments, crude oil exposure via inhalation, physical symptoms and injuries, and professional help-seeking during deployment, aPRs = 1.54-6.55. Tobacco initiation was inversely associated with older age and officer rank and positively associated with deployment-related stressors and depression/anxiety during deployment, aPRs = 1.58-4.44. Associations remained robust after excluding responders with a history of mental health- and tobacco-related health encounters up to 3 years before deployment. Depression, anxiety, and tobacco initiation were cross-sectionally associated with oil spill response work experiences among DWH responders, who largely originated outside of the affected community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanny H. Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Hristina Denic-Roberts
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeffrey L. Goodie
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Dana L. Thomas
- United States Coast Guard Headquarters, Directorate of Health, Safety, and Work Life, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Lawrence S. Engel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Rusiecki
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Goldman ZE, Kaufman JA, Sharpe JD, Wolkin AF, Gribble MO. Coping with oil spills: oil exposure and anxiety among residents of Gulf Coast states after the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. UCL OPEN ENVIRONMENT 2022; 4:e035. [PMID: 36148383 PMCID: PMC9491446 DOI: 10.14324/111.444/ucloe.000035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In April 2010, a fatal explosion on the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico resulted in the largest marine oil spill in history. This research describes the association of oil exposure with anxiety after the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and evaluates effect modification by self-mastery, emotional support and cleanup participation. To assess the impacts of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted the Gulf States Population Survey (GSPS), a random-digit-dial telephone cross-sectional survey completed between December 2010 and December 2011 with 38,361 responses in four different Gulf Coast states: Louisiana, Florida, Alabama and Mississippi. Anxiety severity was measured using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) symptom inventory. We used Tobit regression to model underlying anxiety as a function of oil exposure and hypothesised effect modifiers, adjusting for socio-demographics. Latent anxiety was higher among those with direct contact with oil than among those who did not have direct contact with oil in confounder-adjusted models [β = 2.84, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.78, 4.91]. Among individuals with direct contact with oil, there was no significant interaction between participating in cleanup activities and emotional support for anxiety (p = 0.20). However, among those with direct contact with oil, in confounder-adjusted models, participation in oil spill cleanup activities was associated with lower latent anxiety (β = -3.55, 95% CI: -6.15, -0.95). Oil contact was associated with greater anxiety, but this association appeared to be mitigated by cleanup participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary E. Goldman
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - John A. Kaufman
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - J. Danielle Sharpe
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Amy F. Wolkin
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30345, USA
| | - Matthew O. Gribble
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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7
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Mishra S, Chauhan G, Verma S, Singh U. The emergence of nanotechnology in mitigating petroleum oil spills. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 178:113609. [PMID: 35417809 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The world has witnessed the circumstances shaped by the oil spill for many decades that cause serious environmental problems and adverse effects on human health. Many techniques and remediation methods are followed for efficient oil spill cleanups but with the limitations and environmental issues, these procedures were not completely efficient. The "nanotechnology" word itself has fascinated not only the researchers but also many industries and the global race is on to tap its potential and to derive benefit from it. Their small size and exceptional properties have proven their potential in providing technological solutions to engineering problems. This study focuses on the scope of nanotechnology in oil spill cleanups and shows how the limitations presented by conventional methodologies can be overcome. This paper categorizes and thoroughly reviews the application of nanotechnology in oil spill cleanups in different forms and also focuses on the environmental aspects of it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Mishra
- Energy Science and Technology Program, Centre for Advanced Studies, Lucknow, India.
| | - Geetanjali Chauhan
- Department of Petroleum Engineering, Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy, Visakhapatnam, India
| | - Samarpit Verma
- Energy Science and Technology Program, Centre for Advanced Studies, Lucknow, India
| | - Ujjawal Singh
- Energy Science and Technology Program, Centre for Advanced Studies, Lucknow, India
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Hu MD, Lawrence KG, Gall M, Emrich CT, Bodkin MR, Jackson WB, MacNell N, Kwok RK, Engel LS, Sandler DP. Natural hazards and mental health among US Gulf Coast residents. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2021; 31:842-851. [PMID: 33603095 PMCID: PMC8371064 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-021-00301-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals affected by disasters are at risk for adverse mental health sequelae. Individuals living in the US Gulf Coast have experienced many recent major disasters, but few studies have explored the cumulative burden of experiencing multiple disasters on mental health. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between disaster burden and mental health. METHODS We used data from 9278 Gulf Long-term Follow-up Study participants who completed questionnaires on perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in 2011-2013. We linked 2005-2010 county-level data from the Spatial Hazard Events and Losses Database for the United States, a database of loss-causing events, to participant's home address. Exposure measures included total count of loss events as well as severity quantified as property/crop losses per capita from all hazards. We used multilevel modeling to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each exposure-outcome relationship. RESULTS Total count of loss events was positively associated with perceived stress (ORQ4:1.40, 95% CI:1.21-1.61) and was inversely associated with PTSD (ORQ4:0.66, 95% CI:0.45-0.96). Total duration of exposure was also associated with stress (ORQ4:1.16, 95% CI:1.01-1.33) but not with other outcomes. Severity based on cumulative fatalities/injuries was associated with anxiety (ORQ4:1.31, 95% CI:1.05-1.63) and stress (ORQ4:1.34, 95% CI:1.15-1.57), and severity based on cumulative property/crop losses was associated with anxiety (ORQ4:1.42, 95% CI:1.12-1.81), depression (ORQ4:1.22, 95% CI:0.95-1.57) and PTSD (ORQ4:1.99, 95% CI:1.44-2.76).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Hu
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kaitlyn G Lawrence
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Melanie Gall
- Center for Emergency Management and Homeland Security, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Christopher T Emrich
- College of Community Innovation and Education, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Richard K Kwok
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lawrence S Engel
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA.
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9
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Kaufman JA, Goldman ZE, Sharpe JD, Wolkin AF, Gribble MO. Mechanisms of resiliency against depression following the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2019; 65:101329. [PMID: 31607770 PMCID: PMC6788640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2019.101329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Prior studies of oil spills have reported adverse impacts on mental health, but have not examined some potentially important moderators. In this cross-sectional analysis of n=38,361 responses to the 2010-2011 Gulf States Population Survey, we assessed the association of direct oil contact with depression severity following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and modification by self-mastery, emotional support, and cleanup participation using Tobit regression models accounting for the complex survey design. Oil contact was associated with increased depression severity. Among respondents with oil contact, depression was more severe for those reporting lower self-mastery. However, respondents with oil contact had lower depression severity if they participated in cleanup efforts, compared to exposed individuals who did not participate. This potential protective effect was larger for respondents with lower self-mastery. Our results are consistent with the notion that participation in recovery efforts may reduce depressive symptoms following oil spills among impacted individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A. Kaufman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Zachary E. Goldman
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - J. Danielle Sharpe
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Amy F. Wolkin
- Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Matthew O. Gribble
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Promoting Integrated Mental Health Care Services in Disaster Response Programs: Lessons Learned After the Impact of Hurricane María in Puerto Rico. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2019; 14:130-138. [PMID: 31429397 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2019.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Meteorological and even human-made disasters are increasing every year in frequency and magnitude. The passage of a disaster affects a society without distinction, but groups with social vulnerability (low socioeconomic status, chronic medical, or psychological conditions, limited access to resources) face the most significant impact. As a result, psychological and behavioral symptoms (eg, depression and anxiety) can ensue, making the immediate response of mental health services crucial. Secondary data from a database of a temporary healthcare unit were analyzed. A total of 54 records were reviewed to collect information; univariate and bivariate analyses were done. The purpose of this article is to present our experience regarding the incorporation of a mental health services model, with its respective benefits and challenges, into a temporary healthcare unit, after Hurricane Maria in 2017.
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11
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Lowe SR, McGrath JA, Young MN, Kwok RK, Engel LS, Galea S, Sandler DP. Cumulative Disaster Exposure and Mental and Physical Health Symptoms Among a Large Sample of Gulf Coast Residents. J Trauma Stress 2019; 32:196-205. [PMID: 30913348 PMCID: PMC6476642 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A large body of research has linked disaster exposure to adverse mental and physical health outcomes. Few studies, however, have explored the cumulative impact of exposure to multiple disasters. Participants (N = 8,366) from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Gulf Long-Term Follow-Up Study were classified as having been exposed to both, either, or neither Hurricane Katrina and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill (DHOS). Participants also reported on a range of mental and physical health symptoms. Logistic regression models found that participants who were exposed to both disasters had significantly higher odds of probable generalized anxiety disorder, odds ratio (OR) = 1.72, 95% CI [1.52, 1.96]; major depression, OR = 1.53, 95% CI [1.32, 1.77]; and posttraumatic stress disorder, OR = 2.51, 95% CI [2.03, 3.10], than participants who were exposed to only one disaster, ps < .001. Additionally, a linear regression model found that participants who were exposed to both disasters had significantly more physical health symptoms at the time of the spill than those who were exposed to only one disaster, B = 0.99, SE = .20, p < .001. The results indicate that cumulative disaster exposure confers enhanced risk for adverse mental and physical health outcomes. The findings demonstrate that screening for prior exposure among disaster-affected individuals might identify those at greatest risk for adverse health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R. Lowe
- Department of Psychology, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey, USA
| | - John A. McGrath
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Megan N. Young
- Department of Psychology, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey, USA
| | - Richard K. Kwok
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Lawrence S. Engel
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sandro Galea
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts USA
| | - Dale P. Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Sharpe JD, Kaufman JA, Goldman ZE, Wolkin A, Gribble MO. Determinants of oil-spill cleanup participation following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 170:472-480. [PMID: 30640081 PMCID: PMC6361617 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded, spilling over 4.9 million barrels of oil in the Gulf of Mexico over an 87-day period and developing into a long-term environmental disaster that affected people living in Gulf Coast states. Engagement of community members in recovery efforts is important for mitigating adverse effects of disasters and accelerating the rebuilding process for impacted communities; however, few studies have explored factors that determine participation in oil spill cleanups. METHODS We analyzed data from the Gulf States Population Survey (GSPS) to study the determinants of participating in the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill cleanup. The GSPS was a random-digit dialing survey conducted on 38,361 adults in counties and parishes in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi impacted by the oil spill. Using survey estimation to account for the complex survey design, we estimated the probability of cleanup participation and used logistic regression to examine the association between sociodemographic factors and cleanup participation. RESULTS Approximately 4.7% of residents in affected Gulf communities participated in the cleanup. Most participants were young, men, non-Hispanic white, and employed. Living in an affected coastal county was associated with higher odds of participation (unadjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28-2.24), as was having excellent or very good physical health (OR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.11-3.81). Older persons were less likely to participate in the cleanup (OR for 65+ age group vs. 18-24 age group: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.05-0.36). CONCLUSIONS Understanding the demographics of cleanup participants may help inform civilian recruitment for future oil spill responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Danielle Sharpe
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - John A Kaufman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Zachary E Goldman
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amy Wolkin
- Center for Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew O Gribble
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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A Framework for Integrating Environmental and Occupational Health and Primary Care in a Postdisaster Context. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2018; 23 Suppl 6 Suppl, Gulf Region Health Outreach Program:S71-S77. [PMID: 28961656 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000000656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Integration of environmental and occupational health (EOH) into primary care settings is a critical step to addressing the EOH concerns of a community, particularly in a postdisaster context. Several barriers to EOH integration exist at the physician, patient, and health care system levels. PROGRAM This article presents a framework for improving the health system's capacity to address EOH after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and illustrates its application in the Environmental and Occupational Health Education and Referral (EOHER) program. This program worked with 11 Federally Qualified Health Center systems in the Gulf Coast region to try to address the EOH concerns of community members and to assist primary care providers to better understand the impact of EOH factors on their patients' health. IMPLEMENTATION The framework uses a 3-pronged approach to (1) foster coordination between primary care and EOH facilities through a referral network and peer consultations, (2) increase physician capacity in EOH issues through continuing education and training, and (3) conduct outreach to community members about EOH issues. EVALUATION The EOHER program highlighted the importance of building strong partnerships with community members and other relevant organizations, as well as high organizational capacity and effective leadership to enable EOH integration into primary care settings. Physicians in the EOHER program were constrained in their ability to engage with EOH issues due to competing patient needs and time constraints, indicating the need to improve physicians' ability to assess which patients are at high risk for EOH exposures and to efficiently take environmental and occupational histories. DISCUSSION This article highlights the importance of addressing EOH barriers at multiple levels and provides a model that can be applied to promote community health, particularly in the context of future natural or technological disasters.
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