Dust, Asbestos, and Sludge Exposure: What Kinds of Respiratory Injuries Are Caused by Disaster-Induced Dust, Asbestos, and Sludge Exposure?

In past disasters, marked increases in the frequencies of common respiratory diseases, such as community-acquired pneumonia, and the exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchial asthma were observed. The temporary deterioration of the health status of the general public due to problems with infrastructure and health management systems was probably responsible for these increases. On the other hand, no significant increases in the incidence rates of conditions caused by damage to the peripheral respiratory system or asbestosis have been reported in large populations that experienced disasters.