Analyzing environmental hazards via the Climate Hazards Center to improve global healthcare resilience
New research from Frank Davenport and the Department of Geography reveals that extreme floods and droughts change the course of chronic illnesses. The team created a record linking climate data to health care access, showing that weather exposure often blocks patients from critical clinics. "There was not a lot of research in this area and this was a unique opportunity," Davenport said.
Utilizing tools from the campus Climate Hazards Center, lead author Sophia Arabadjis tracked repeated exposures across sites in southern Africa. The study provides a foundation for more specific research on endemic communicable diseases. By pinpointing which clinics are at risk, geographers aim to help agencies target resources to the most vulnerable patient populations before disaster strikes. Read the full story on The Current.
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