Disaster and Stroke

Abstract

The chaotic medical environment following the Great East Japan Earthquake, which hit mainly Tohoku, is still fresh in our minds. Stroke requires immediate medical treatment. Moreover, continuous drug therapy is needed for chronic-phase stroke patients to prevent the progression of cerebrovascular damage. Thus, stroke patients are particularly vulnerable at times of disaster, as exemplified by the Great East Japan Earthquake, which caused disruption of medical supplies, including antiplatelet and anticonvulsant agents, in addition to the physical damage to hospital facilities. To prepare for potential disasters, it is important to have contingency plans in place for the maintenance or prompt restoration of hospital function, as well as to ensure the security of medicines and the provision of essential medical supplies and manpower. It is also important to conduct exercise drills to test the effectiveness of such plans.