A recent study published in the journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters found that earthquakes can cause sudden cardiac death (SCD) in individuals who are not suffering from heart disease or other related conditions. According to the study's authors, the presence of large aftershocks following major earthquakes could be to blame for the increase in SCDs following these events. The researchers analyzed the cases of 452 people who died from SCD following the deadly 2004 earthquake in Turkey and found that the victims were more likely to have suffered from cardiovascular-related conditions such as hypertension or coronary artery disease than individuals who did not experience an SCD after the same event. The findings of the study suggest that people living in areas affected by frequent earthquakes may be at higher risk of developing heart-related illnesses. After an earthquake, many people are injured or killed and thousands are displaced from their homes. These traumatic events may have long-lasting effects on a person's health. It is important for people with preexisting medical conditions to be aware of the risks associated with living in an earthquake-prone area. They should take steps to reduce the risk of sudden death by keeping up to date with their heart health and visiting their doctor regularly.
Preventative interventions to encourage the adaptation of healthcare systems to treat cardiovascular events following natural disasters should be done quickly, especially in high-risk areas. It is also important to implement post-earthquake disaster planning to include medical care for affected populations and develop strategies to address the needs of vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and the elderly. When planning for emergency response, it is important to ensure that the health system is prepared to deal with the aftermath of a natural disaster including heart attacks and other life-threatening situations that may occur after the event. By preparing in advance, healthcare providers will be able to provide better care to those in need in the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster.