by Flooding is often measured in terms of its economic impact on infrastructure. However, a recent study conducted by the Yale School of Public Health has shed light on the lesser-known health consequences of flooding. The study found that flooding is not just associated with the risk of physical injuries and exposure to waterborne diseases, but also poses a significant threat to human life by increasing the risk of mortality due to cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and mental disorders.
Traditionally, the costs of severe flooding have been assessed based on property damage and insurance claims. However, this study highlights the importance of considering the impact of flooding on non-communicable diseases as well, according to Kai Chen, the senior author of the study and assistant professor of epidemiology (environmental health).
The study, titled “Association of flooding exposure with cause-specific mortality in North Carolina, United States,” analyzed data from 446,807 deaths that occurred between 2015 and 2019 across 98 counties in North Carolina. The state has experienced various forms of severe weather disasters, including different types of flooding, over the past three decades.
The researchers compared the mortality risk associated with flash floods, which occur during heavy rainfall and last three to six hours, and longer-duration floods that can stretch over one day or multiple days. Surprisingly, both types of flooding showed similar outcomes in terms of mortality risks, although non-flash floods had higher total attributable deaths.
The study also revealed unexpected differences in the impact of flooding on different age groups. While older adults were found to have an increased risk of accidental deaths, such as drowning and injuries caused by falling, younger people faced a higher risk of non-accidental deaths, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases, and mental disorders. These findings were consistent even after controlling for factors such as poverty, access to healthcare, temperature, and precipitation rates at the county level.
The study suggests that exposure to flooding can lead to respiratory and allergic health effects due to dampness and mold. Additionally, the impact of flooding on mental stress appears to be more pronounced in younger individuals. Chen explained that older adults may have a lower non-accidental mortality risk due to their preparedness with routine medications and healthcare.
Chen and his team plan to expand their research on flooding exposure and mortality to states in the eastern and western parts of the United States to gain a broader understanding of how flooding impacts human health. This knowledge could help in the development of effective health interventions during disaster emergencies.
In a related study, Chen’s research group previously found a link between severe flooding and an increased risk of diarrhea in children. They discovered that prolonged flooding and flooding following periods of drought were associated with a higher risk of diarrhea among younger children in low- and middle-income countries.
Overall, this study emphasizes the need to recognize and address the significant health risks posed by flooding. By understanding the impact of flooding on human health, policymakers and public health officials can implement preventive measures and develop strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of flooding on individuals and communities.
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