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

Abstract

We aimed to assess unmet needs of pwCF in the earthquake zone by income level. Methods: 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. Results: 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). Conclusion: 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.