Integrating Health Research into Disaster Response: The New NIH Disaster Research Response Program

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Disaster Medicine
• Public Health Preparedness

Background:

• Recent disasters like the Gulf Oil Spill, Flint water crisis, and Zika virus outbreaks highlight critical gaps in disaster research.
• Inability to conduct timely research exacerbates public anxiety and distrust regarding health and safety risks.
• Disasters frequently involve environmental health components, necessitating specialized research for complex exposures and effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the need for high-quality, timely disaster research.
• To improve the evaluation of environmental exposures and health effects, particularly in vulnerable populations.
• To enhance preparedness and reduce adverse health impacts following disasters.

Main Methods:

• Initiation of the National Institute of Environmental Health Science's Disaster Research Response Program.
• Development of new research tools and protocols.
• Establishment of researcher networks, training exercises, and stakeholder outreach.

Main Results:

• The program aims to overcome challenges in conducting rapid and effective disaster research.
• Focus on creating a responsive infrastructure for environmental health research during emergencies.
• Emphasis on including diverse stakeholders and vulnerable sub-populations in research efforts.

Conclusions:

• A dedicated disaster research response program is essential for public health.
• Improved research capabilities will lead to better informed communities and reduced health risks.
• Enhanced preparedness through specialized research is vital for mitigating disaster consequences.