Global Disparities in the Preparedness for Radiation Emergencies

Abstract

Background: Radiation emergencies are rare but can have minor confined effects to catastrophic consequences across the large geographical territories. Geographical disparities in the preparedness for radiation emergencies can negatively impact public-safety and delay protective actions. We examined such disparities using the global and regional radiation preparedness data from the revised annual International Health Regulations (IHR) datasets. Methods: We used IHR State Party Annual Reporting (SPAR) tool and its associated health indicators developed to mitigate public health-risk from radiation emergencies. Using the most recent (2019) SPAR database developed for radiation emergencies, along with 12 other cross-sector indicators, we examined the disparities among World Health Organization (WHO) state and region-wide capacity scores for operational preparedness. Findings: Based on the analysis of the 2019 annual reporting datasets from 171 countries, radiation emergency was one of the top 3 global challenges with an average global preparedness capacity of 55%. Radiation emergency preparedness capacity scores showed highest dispersion score amongst all 13 capacities suggesting higher disparities for preparedness across the globe. Only 38% of the countries had advanced functional capacity with ≥80% operational readiness, with 28% countries having low to very-low operational readiness. No geographical regions had ≥80% operational readiness for radiation emergencies, with 4/6 geographical regions showing limited capacity or effectiveness. Interpretation: We found major global disparities for the operational preparedness against radiation emergencies. Collaborative approaches involving the public health officials and policymakers at the regional and state levels are needed to develop additional guidance to adapt emergency preparedness plans for radiation incidents. Funding Information: This research was supported by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under award number UL1TR001412 to the University at Buffalo and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and by Roswell Park and National Cancer Institute under award number P30CA016056. UCS is supported by KO8HL131987 and RO1HL152090 Award from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). SP received support from NIH/NHLBI (Award Numbers R21HL154028 and RO1HL150266). Declaration of Interests: None.