#USA #Atlanta #Hurricane Helene #Drug Shortages #American Cancer Society

The Impact of Climate Disasters on the U.S. Drug Supply Chain

In a revealing study conducted by the American Cancer Society (ACS), researchers highlighted a significant vulnerability in the U.S. drug supply chain due to climate-related disasters. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), indicates that nearly 66% of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities in the U.S. are situated in areas prone to weather disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.

An Alarming Trend

The pressing concern was notably underscored when Hurricane Helene struck in 2024, leading to a nationwide shortage of intravenous (IV) fluids—a critical component for many medical treatments. This situation echoed another disaster from 2017 when Hurricane Maria also led to a significant IV fluid shortage. According to Dr. Leticia Nogueira, the scientific director at ACS and senior author of the study, these drug shortages emphasize the fragility of the pharmaceutical supply chain in the face of climate challenges.

Methodology of the Study

The researchers undertook a thorough analysis of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) database, which includes records of drug manufacturing facilities that were operational from 2019 to 2024. They examined facilities located in counties that had experienced disaster declarations issued by FEMA during the same timeframe, and categorized these disasters by type—focusing on hurricanes, fires, storms, tornadoes, and floods.

From the investigation, they discovered that among 10,861 active drug production facilities during the period, a staggering 62.8% were located in counties that had declared at least one climate-related disaster. Furthermore, the study noted that hurricanes were the predominant form of disaster affecting these facilities, which raises significant concerns about the resilience of drug availability in the U.S.

Call for Greater Resilience

Dr. Nogueira emphasized that these findings are critical for recognizing climate vulnerabilities in the pharmaceutical sector. With disruptions potentially putting patients in jeopardy due to delays in lifesaving treatments, the study calls for a robust supply chain transparency and the integration of disaster risk management into healthcare operations. The proactive examination and mitigation of threats to the drug supply must become a priority to prevent future healthcare disruptions.

As highlighted by Mark E. Fleury, a policy development principal at ACS CAN, chronic shortages of essential cancer medications, particularly older generic sterile injectable drugs, have been exacerbated by various factors—including natural disasters. The ACS CAN is actively advocating for systemic changes that enhance the durability of the drug supply chain, pushing for redundancy mechanisms to ensure the accessibility of vital medications.

Conclusion

This study shines a light on a pressing issue facing the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors amidst a changing climate. The American Cancer Society, through detailed research, is working towards a more prepared and resilient drug supply system, ensuring patients can access necessary treatments without disruption. Addressing these vulnerabilities not only aids in effective cancer treatment but is vital for the health and well-being of the larger population. As climate-related incidents continue to escalate, the need for strategic planning and resource allocation in the realm of drug supply chains becomes ever more critical.