The effect of flooding on respiratory health in children and adults.

INTRODUCTION

The occurrence of severe storms and floods has steadily increased over the last decades world-wide because of climate change and global warming. Flooding events have important effects on respiratory health especially in vulnerable populations. Some health effects are immediate, such as respiratory infections, asthma attacks and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations. An important immediate risk arises for patients with technology dependent respiratory conditions if power supplies fail. Post-flood, indoor damp and mold develop in flooded homes creating a high risk of developing chronic respiratory disease in residents.

AREAS COVERED: This review summarizes what is known about the immediate and the medium- to long-term effects of flooding on respiratory health. The negative health effects of prolonged living in a damp and moldy home are discussed.

EXPERT OPINION: Climate change and global warming appear to be progressing at a more rapid pace than previously predicted and this will increase the number and the severity of global storm and flood events. Floods pose a substantial risk to patients with chronic respiratory disease and health systems world-wide need to be more aware and prepare to manage the immediate and the long-term needs of increasing numbers of patients affected by natural disasters.