The Disastrous Earthquake in Turkey and its Effects on Respiratory Disease

Abstract Background The effects of earthquakes on the environment are evident. Moreover, the physical and psychological damage directly caused by earthquakes, along with the inhalation of organic or inorganic particles that occur both during and after an earthquake, are crucial etiological factors in the development of respiratory system diseases. Objectıves This study aims to assess the incidence of respiratory diseases during and after the February 2023 earthquake and support healthcare professionals by sharing relevant data. Patıents and Methods A total of 1122 patients followed in the Department of Chest Diseases between 2022 and 2024 were evaluated. Air quality data from the Turkish National Air Quality Monitoring Network was analyzed to explore the link between obstructive lung diseases and air pollutants. Desıgn Retrospective and observational study. Maın Outcome Measures In February 2023, 26 pneumonia, 20 COPD, and 1 asthma case required inpatient treatment. Compared to February 2022, hospitalizations for pneumonia and COPD exacerbations increased significantly (p < 0.001). Post-earthquake, hospitalizations for pneumonia, asthma attacks, and embolism also increased (p < 0.001), but no significant change was observed in COPD exacerbations before and after the earthquake. Conclusıon Air pollution and power outages created challenges in treating chronic lung disease patients. The incidence of pneumonia increased, particularly due to the winter season and housing issues following the earthquake.