More than 60 health workers warn of the impact of evictions on health and denounce “the absence of adequate protection”

More than 60 professionals from Vallecas health centers have signed a manifesto in which they warn of “the secondary health effects of homelessness and eviction processes, as well as the absence of adequate protection by the administrations.” public”: “Threats of eviction and kicking people out of their homes make people sick.”

In the letter, these professionals point out that Puente de Vallecas is one of the most economically depressed districts of the city of Madrid and, at the same time, “one of the most affected by evictions and with the highest percentage of people at risk of losing their homes.” dwelling”. “Given the weight of the evidence and the scope of the consequences of the housing problem and, specifically, evictions, as health professionals we have the duty to act to mitigate its effects and protect the health of the population,” they indicate. For this reason, community work with the different agents involved is essential,” they point out to indicate their “support for the struggle of the movements in defense of the right to housing.”

The statement was released the night before the eviction of Mariano, a resident of the neighborhood with health problems, which was carried out this Wednesday. “Eviction processes are associated with worsening mental health, including higher rates of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and may increase the risk of suicide. They have also been linked to an increase in chronic diseases, pain and drug use; with an overall worse self-perceived health, with a greater probability of suffering from cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure; with an increase in tobacco and alcohol consumption, and with the reappearance of health problems previously overcome,” they list.

The impacts of the housing crisis on health, these professionals point out, “are not limited to the individual or family case of evicted people,” but rather “have negative consequences for the neighborhood and the community, with adverse effects on health.” general and mental, which affect the population in a transversal way.” Furthermore, they remember that “it is up to public administrations to protect their citizens by facilitating effective compliance with the right to health protection and the right to enjoy decent and adequate housing.”

In this sense, in their statement they demand that the validity of the medical and vulnerability reports prepared by the health system be recognized for making decisions that affect the loss of their home, that public administrations stop the launches and executions mortgages and that decent housing solutions are offered to the entire population.