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Disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity. They can be exacerbated by climate change, rapid urbanization and environmental degradation. Disasters impede sustainable development. This problem is particularly acute in the Western Pacific Region, which accounts for six of the top 10 countries most exposed to natural hazards, according to the 2014 World Risk Report. The Regional Framework for Action for Disaster Risk Management for Health recommends health sector actions for each of the four phases of the disaster risk management cycle – prevention, preparedness, response and recovery. Governments should select priorities on which to focus according to their own national disaster risk management plans, as well as the local context and potential hazards.