Preexisting Risk Drove Poststorm Events - Summary - MDSpire
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Preexisting Risk Drove Poststorm Events

Analysis of nearly 1.6 million veterans showed preexisting community health inequities largely explained poststorm cardiovascular and respiratory outcomes.

  • By

  • Andrea Surnit

  • May 6, 2026

  • 4 min

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A retrospective study analyzed the health impact of Hurricanes Sandy and Harvey on nearly 1.6 million veterans, revealing that preexisting health disparities, rather than storm exposure, accounted for increases in cardiovascular and respiratory events. Researchers found neighborhood disadvantage to be a key predictor of health outcomes, with older age and sex also influencing risks. The findings suggest the need for a shift in disaster preparedness strategies to address long-term social determinants of health. This research was conducted by Caryn S. Yip, PhD, and colleagues from the University of Iowa.

Original Source(s)

Preexisting Risk Drove Poststorm Events

  • by Andrea Surnit

  • May 6, 2026

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