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Intervention and Security Strategies for Persons with Disabilities in Emergency and Disaster Situations

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Preventing Health and Environmental Risks in Latin America

Part of the book series: The Anthropocene: Politik—Economics—Society—Science ((APESS,volume 23))

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Abstract

A natural disaster represents a situation of threat or danger that influences the vulnerability of the human being. The effects of natural disasters result in a rise in mortality, morbidity and disability rates that severely impact the affected country. The vulnerability caused by a natural disaster promotes a state of susceptibility to loss, damage or injury, and people with disabilities are considered the most vulnerable population. This is particularly relevant when it comes to protecting those most disadvantaged in emergency situations. Moreover, emergency services are put to the test when it comes to caring for disabled people. In order to minimize risks and prevent damage, it is important to make studies that deeply address the specific needs of this population. Taking care of vulnerable victims in a disaster, such as people with disabilities, is an issue that illustrates our evolution as a society in the provision of services and the consideration of human rights.

Dr. Iris W. Cátala Torres, Professor-Researcher, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus. Email: iris.catala@upr.edu

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico

    Iris W. Cátala Torres

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  1. Iris W. Cátala Torres
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Correspondence to Iris W. Cátala Torres .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Psychological Research, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico

    Ma. Luisa Marván

  2. Interdisciplinary Psychology Research Center, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico

    Esperanza López-Vázquez

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Cátala Torres, I.W. (2018). Intervention and Security Strategies for Persons with Disabilities in Emergency and Disaster Situations. In: Marván, M., López-Vázquez, E. (eds) Preventing Health and Environmental Risks in Latin America. The Anthropocene: Politik—Economics—Society—Science, vol 23. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-73799-7_9

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