When a disaster unfolds, emergency responders and communities face a combination of exposure risks, hazardous conditions, and physical and mental stressors. However, the immediate and longer-term health effects of those factors often are not clearly understood. One of the main goals of the NIH Disaster Research Response (DR2) Program aims to improve how researchers collect data post-disaster, with the goal of improving community resilience to future emergencies. Led by NIEHS, DR2 provides resources, training, and networking opportunities to build a community of practice for the disaster research field. To commemorate the program’s 10th anniversary this year, DR2 program lead Aubrey K. Miller, M.D., M.P.H., discusses program hallmarks, successes, and goals.
