After the earthquake: Unmet needs in people with cystic fibrosis in Turkiye- multicenter study

We aimed to assess unmet needs of pwCF in the earthquake zone by income level.

Following the February 6, 2023 Earthquake in Turkiye, the shorter version of the 'Your Current Life Situation' (YCLS) survey was adapted for post-earthquake conditions. The adapted YCLS was administered through face-to-face interviews at participants in seven earthquake-affected provinces to determine the insecurity areas and unmet needs in pwCF. Parents completed the survey for those pwCF under 18 years old; those over 18 completed it themselves.

Among 255 participants, 91.7% (n=234) had incomes below the poverty threshold and 71.8% (n=183) below the hunger threshold. Post-earthquake, 69% (n=176) lived in overcrowded conditions and 37.6% (n=96) relocated to temporary housing. Under these challenging circumstances, 34.5% (n=88) of pwCF experienced disruptions in routine visits, and 20.8% (n=53) reported disruption in daily CF care routine. Financial and food insecurities were prevalent, with 77.3% (n=197) and 53.3% (n=136) of participants affected, respectively. The potential impact of earthquake-induced relocation on the participants' insecurity status was analyzed. Among those who relocated, financial, transportation, and housing insecurity appeared to be more prevalent (p<0.001).

This is the first study to analyze association between income level and unmet needs among pwCF living in earthquake-affected zone. The study revealed significant financial and food insecurity among pwCF in these areas. The findings emphasize the need for disaster-specific emergency action plans to address these vulnerabilities, ensuring access to healthcare and basic needs during crises.