Research Symposium

BIO

Jacquelle Jean Jacques is a second-year junior at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. Jacquelle is a research mentee in Florida State University’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), where she conducts research examining the impacts of natural disasters on health insurance coverage. Through this experience, she has developed skills in policy analysis, data interpretation, and analytical writing while working closely with faculty mentors and presenting her research findings.
In addition to her research, Jacquelle serves as an Ambassador for EarthEcho International’s Marine Plastics Program, a nonprofit initiative focused on environmental conservation. In this role, she researches the impacts of marine plastic pollution on public health and hopes to connect with legislators this summer to discuss policy solutions addressing plastic pollution and its effects on community health.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Jacquelle plans to attend law school and pursue a career as an attorney working in health policy and medical malpractice, where she hopes to advocate for policies that improve healthcare access and protections for patients.

THE IMPACT OF NATURAL DISASTERS ON HEALTH IN THE UNITED STATES

Abstract

Through an extensive review of research across multiple bodies of literature, this project analyzes the health implications of natural disasters across adulthood, specifically adults, and the elderly. Natural disasters cause significant loss and disruption, yet their effects on human health are often overlooked. These events are associated with a wide range of health issues, including physical injuries, the worsening of chronic conditions, and mental health challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety, particularly among adolescents.​
Many individuals experience an increase in health-related problems following exposure to a natural disaster; however, access to adequate healthcare and health insurance coverage for affected populations is frequently limited. The health consequences of natural disasters remain a persistent and under addressed issue, contributing to declines in both individual and community well-being. These effects may appear immediately after a disaster or emerge months later.​
This project examines health outcomes across the lifespan by analyzing multiple graphs and data sets that illustrate how health impacts vary by age group. It also explores barriers to treatment following diagnosis in post-disaster settings. While preliminary, the findings suggest a direct association between natural disasters and increased prevalence of adverse health outcomes. This research underscores the need for improved healthcare access and support systems to address both the short- and long-term health consequences of natural disasters.

Keywords: Health, natural disasters, mental health