Clinical Features of Disaster-Related Deaths After the Kumamoto Earthquake 2016 ― Comparison With the Great East Japan Earthquake 2011 ―

Abstract

Background: Although “disaster-related death” as a category awarded disaster-related compensation includes death not caused by the tragedy itself, the actual definition remains unclear. Methods and Results: In the Kumamoto earthquake 2016, compared with the Great East Japan Earthquake 2011, excessive mental and physical stress and suicide were observed significantly more as causes of disaster-related death. Conclusions: It is essential to give maximum consideration to refugees to support them while in shelters. Key Words: Disaster; Disaster-related death