Work

Dialysis in crisis: Delivering renal replacement therapy in disasters, conflicts, and resource-constrained settings

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Access to dialysis during crises such as natural disasters, armed conflicts, pandemics, or in low-resource settings remains a significant global challenge. Vulnerable populations requiring chronic or acute dialysis are disproportionately affected by disruptions in infrastructure, supply chains, human resources, and water or power availability. This article explores the operational, clinical, ethical, and logistical challenges faced while delivering dialysis in crisis scenarios. Drawing from global case studies including earthquakes in Japan, war zones in Gaza, water-stressed regions, and lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper highlights feasible models of care, outlines adaptive strategies, and proposes a framework to improve dialysis delivery during emergencies.

Source: Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association

DOI: 10.47391/jpma.25-79

Authors: Sourabh Sharma, Rasha Darwish, Sanjay Kalra, Sabine Karam

Institutions: Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital, Cairo University, Chandigarh University, Bharti Hospital, University of Minnesota

Language: English

Topic: Disaster Response and Management

Subfield: Emergency Medical Services

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $650