A survey on citizens with chronic diseases about residual drugs and self-stockpiling of drugs in preparation for disasters

Abstract

A questionnaire survey was conducted on citizens taking medication for chronic diseases (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, asthma, atopic dermatitis). As a result, 52.7% had residual drugs. Patients who use GPs or pharmacies tend to self-stockpile drugs in preparation for a disaster. These patients may have previously been informed about the need of self-stockpiling drugs in case of emergency. Those who responded that they were at risk of a secondary disaster tended to self-stockpile drugs in preparation for long-term evacuation. Although the risk of self-stockpiling of drugs by patients with chronic illness may not be high, it is desirable for pharmacies to be more actively involved to ensure safe self-stockpiling.