Reviewing the Impacts of Natural and Technological Disasters on the End-Stage Kidney Disease Community.

Abstract

The impact and severity of natural disasters and hazards have been increasing in the United States and throughout the world. With our mounting reliance and dependence on technology in our industrialized society, technological disasters also have become more commonplace. Although disasters may occur with little to no warning, these risks are felt to be acceptable despite their ability to impact large populations. Natural and technological disasters disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). The impact of natural and technological disasters on the ESKD community has been closely examined via numerous case studies and through the lens of particular disasters, but there is a paucity of data exploring the impacts of natural and technological disasters on the ESKD community by disaster type. A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar, and relevant articles pertaining to the impacts of natural and technological disasters on the ESKD community were reviewed. More than 50 studies were reviewed in total. This review aimed to identify common patterns and trends observed in the impacts of different disaster types on the ESKD community to better prepare patients and their providers before the next disaster strikes.