People with incurable diseases like diabetes and those who suffer from other types of disability are less likely than their healthier peers to be adequately prepared in case of a hurricane, tornado or other natural disaster, according to research from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
The analysis, led by Jeffrey Bethel of East Carolina University, found that disaster preparedness was significantly less common among Americans who described themselves as being in poor health, having a physical disability or suffering from a chronic disease. They were, however, more likely than healthy people to have at least a three-day supply of necessary medication.
The data collection was undertaken from 2006 to 2008 as part of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a large scale survey performed by various state departments of health, according to the report.
In addition to having an emergency kit ready and packed, it’s particularly important for those with chronic medical conditions to have the proper health insurance coverage and to make emergency arrangements for their daily care since medical facilities may not be prepared to handle a national disaster.
