Nutritional Management of Individuals with Chronic Disease and Vulnerable Populations Following a Disaster

Abstract

Chronic diseases and related conditions (CDRCs), such as diabetes, renal disease, and cardiovascular disease affect a large proportion of the population in developed nations. Following a large scale disaster, when food, water, and medical supplies are limited, CDRCs increase the risk of adverse health outcomes in displaced populations and require nutrition intervention. Other vulnerable populations, including the elderly, breastfeeding moms, and infants are also at high risk for adverse nutrition related health outcomes following a disaster. This thesis is comprised of two research studies, which examine: a) the prevalence of CDRCs in non-institutionalized U.S. adults, b) the effect of chronic disease status, mental or emotional health status, and disability status on disaster preparedness behaviors, and c) nutritional management of vulnerable populations include those with CDRCs. Preparation for disasters by both individuals and communities is an important part of critical infrastructure needed to be able to respond, and recover from disasters.