|
|
|
|
|
|
|
New Orleans had significant public health concern before Katrina struck. Centuries of history littered with racial, social and economic challenges left the city's communities fractured and the physical environment filled with risks. Health disparities along age, socioeconomic and ethnic lines were common place. Obesity and other contemporary diseases of the "new" malnutrition (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure), poor food systems in impoverished neighborhoods, an unraveling health care system, and a lack of public safety were major problems. An urban landscape laden with lead and other heavy metals, scattered about with brown-field sites and landfills made the scene even more complicated. The loss of land and coastal ecosystems and livelihoods that has occurred over the last century adds yet another layer. While it is clear that the floodwaters held acute risks immediately following the storm, and mold-filled homes continue to pose problems, the long-term consequences of the damage and flooding in the city are unclear. How will changing demographics shape public health care needs? Where did the flood-waters increase contamination of soils and sediments? What impact will the storm have on both perceived and real public safety? How will a weakened health infrastructure handle the increased need for psychiatric services and meet basic needs? Is the local and national public health system equipped to handle another disaster? The answer to all these questions is unclear and the public health challenges are great, but what is certain is that New Orleans has an opportunity to right the wrongs of the past and become a "healthier" city. | |
|
|
|
