Research summary
At least 132 million people around the world need life-saving humanitarian assistance because of war and natural disasters. Many face health problems due to trauma and lack of basic medical services—and women and children are often the hardest hit.
Dr. Susan Bartels, Canada Research Chair in Humanitarian Health Equity, is investigating the personal, social, economic and environmental factors that determine health among women and children affected by war and disaster. She and her research team are gathering evidence to inform policies and practices that will improve women’s and children’s health and well-being while reducing the negative impacts they experience from war and disasters.