Archive for category: Global Health

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Addressing HIV/AIDS in Moldova

HIV/AIDS in MoldovaThe quicker the response to a medical epidemic the better. This proved to be the case for Moldova in their response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. An effective response is one to be learned, repeated and implemented for future use.

Moldova’s Problem

HIV and AIDS cases were the highest in Moldova around the 1990s and began to decrease progressively after Moldova’s response to the epidemic.  The National Institute of Health found that in the “Republic of Moldova during 1987-2013, there were 8,557 reported HIV+ cases, of which 2,464 (28.8%) developed AIDS, 1,752 (20.5%) died.” This is compared to more recent statistics showing that “AIDS was confirmed in 286 cases…Of these, in 168 cases (58.74%) AIDS disease was confirmed in persons diagnosed with HIV in 2019.”

The epidemic originally affected select groups of people and only spread from there. Efforts occurred to target treatments to these select groups; however, more work is necessary to address the problem of HIV/AIDS in Moldova. 

Moldova’s Response to HIV/AIDS

The nation of Moldova began to lead the way in creating services that assist in treating HIV/AIDs quickly. Starting it all was a 1993 law which led to medical reforms and provisions in the Republic of Moldova. According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), “the Law on AIDS Prevention of 1993 guarantees people living with HIV/AIDS the right to medical assistance and social insurance.” This was a crucial step toward protecting Moldova’s citizens from the epidemic and providing them with the help they need.

Moldova’s HIV/AIDS National Programme

This law led to the development of the first National Programme on Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS and STIs which the country established in 1995. This program focused on prevention, improvement and ensuring safety in medical procedures. Prevention is key in stopping the spread, and according to UNAIDS, the priority is for preventing “infections among youth, vulnerable groups, [and] first of all among injecting drug users.” These concentrated groups are still a large focus for the Program today because of the high rates of infection among drug users along with homosexual men.

The National Programme on Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS and STIs began initially as a response to national statistics and information concerning HIV/AIDS in Moldova. In more recent years (2016-2020), the program has worked to provide more access to NGO testing and various treatments.  The partnerships with various NGOs have expanded the program’s outreach greatly, allotting for a greater amount of testing. 

Furthermore, the improvement of patients’ conditions is a large focus of the program as well as ensuring safe medical procedures. The trifold purpose of this program is something to learn from. Its aim is to reduce the severity and number of HIV/AIDS cases. Currently, HIV/AIDS in “Moldova is classified as a concentrated/low prevalence country”. This may be due to the effective initiatives the country implemented from the beginning. The quick action to prevent but also serve those affected is something inspiring to implement in the future.  

– Abigail Johnson

Abigail is based in Sapulpa, OK, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Fight Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases

The Fight Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases Mosquitoes play dual roles in ecosystems worldwide as major pollinators and a key food source. They also spread life-threatening diseases such as Malaria, Zika Virus and Dengue Fever, making them the world’s deadliest organism. Mosquitoes cause between 750,000 to 1,000,000 deaths annually and cost the global economy more than $12 billion each year. Despite the impact of mosquito-borne diseases, particularly in low to middle-income countries, mosquitoes remain ecologically important. As a result, scientists are striving to develop creative solutions that prevent, reduce and eradicate these diseases without disrupting natural ecosystems.

Innovative Genetic Solutions

Given the current technology, implementing preventative measures to reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases has become a priority. Indeed, scientists are searching for more effective and widespread solutions to decrease the population of disease-spreading mosquitoes. One promising approach focuses on genetically modifying mosquitoes to reduce their population.

This strategy involves releasing mosquitoes carrying a “self-limiting gene” that causes female offspring to die before reaching adulthood. By targeting specific mosquito species known to spread diseases, this approach aims to break the transmission cycle. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that this method is reversible; ceasing the release of these genetically modified mosquitoes would allow the population to return to normal levels. Controlling the reproduction of disease-spreading mosquitoes, particularly biting females, could potentially prevent deadly disease outbreaks.

Oxitec’s Pioneering Role in Mosquito Population Control

Oxitec, a U.K.-based biotech company, leads the efforts in genetically modified mosquito (GMM) projects. While their stated aim is to help combat the spread of malaria in Eastern Africa and Central and South America, their broader focus includes decreasing the incidence of all mosquito-borne and vector-borne diseases. Oxitec specifically targets three critical mosquito species: Anopheles stephensi, an invasive species originally from Asia now detected in seven African countries, Anopheles albimanus and Aedes aegypti, native to South America.

Brazil’s Fight Against Dengue

Between 2021 and 2022, Brazil experienced a 400% increase in deaths caused by Dengue. In response, the country has ramped up projects to combat mosquito-borne diseases. Despite these ongoing efforts, Brazil is currently grappling with a Dengue Fever outbreak, with confirmed cases surpassing 5 million. Oxitec has initiated the deployment of ‘just-add-water friendly’ genetically modified mosquitoes (GMMs) into the local mosquito populations to help curb this epidemic. Reports indicate that in areas where these interventions have occurred, populations of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have been nearly halved. Authorities are aiming for an overall reduction of 20% to mitigate the current state of emergency affecting many regions, including the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Panama’s Use of GMMs

Panama first utilized GMMs in 2014 through a partnership between Oxitec and the Gorgas Institute in Panama City, aiming to decrease the Aedes aegypti population to reduce Dengue transmission. More recently, Panama has been confronting a new Malaria epidemic, with cases in rural communities surging by 65% in 2023. The rise in cases is primarily attributed to an increase in the population of the invasive mosquito Anopheles albimanus. This situation has renewed collaboration between Panama and Oxitec, leading to the release of genetically modified ‘friendly’ Anopheles albimanus mosquitoes intended to diminish the number of this malaria-spreading species.

GMMs in Djibouti

Anopheles stephensi, a mosquito known for transmitting Malaria in South Asia and the Middle East, was confirmed in 2012 to have crossed the Red Sea into the Horn of Africa. Since then, it has been found in seven African countries and is suspected in four others. Djibouti, which nearly eradicated Malaria in 2012 with fewer than 100 confirmed cases, saw cases skyrocket to more than 70,000 by 2020. In May 2024, Djibouti became the first East African country to deploy genetically modified mosquitoes (GMMs) to combat the rising tide of Malaria.

Looking Ahead

Innovative solutions such as deploying genetically modified mosquitoes present promising methods for controlling mosquito populations and reducing disease transmission without disrupting ecological balance. Countries like Brazil, Panama and Djibouti are already implementing these advanced techniques, underscoring the critical need to continue investing in and developing effective strategies to combat mosquito-borne illnesses globally.

– Philip Mundy

Philip Mundy is based in Bristol, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDS in Gabon: Everything You Need To Know

HIV/AIDS in GabonDespite having a relatively high prevalence in such a small country, the rate of HIV/AIDS in Gabon has improved significantly. Recent political instability has threatened to curtail the progress being made in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the oil-rich Central African nation. However, there is also plenty of reason to believe Gabon will continue on track to reduce the impact of the disease.

HIV/AIDS Is Still an Epidemic

As of 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 49,000 people are living with HIV/AIDS in Gabon. This number includes 2,300 children and 33,000 women. With a population of 2.3 million people, the infection rate stands at around 3%. While that is lower than many neighboring countries, the number is still far higher than the majority of countries around the world that have infection rates below 1%.

Progress Has Been Made

Although work remains, the rate of HIV/AIDS in Gabon has fallen dramatically over the years. Since 2010, infections have been down 31% and deaths in the same time frame have declined by 30%. The sharp decline in HIV/AIDS in Gabon can be attributed to a vast network of local and international players. Recent efforts include a partnership between The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In October 2021, these two organizations launched the Partnerships to Accelerate COVID-19 Testing (PACT) initiative. This dual relief program mobilized more than 70 health workers in Gabon’s areas with the highest prevalence of HIV/AIDS and COVID-19.

Additionally, the U.S. Government has been a key ally. Between 2020 and 2024, the U.S. embassy in Gabon donated more than $1.12 million in equipment and HIV prevention training. A further $2 million worth of antiretroviral medication was donated in the past year. More locally, Luc Armel Mkala Mfoulou has been the project director for the Department of Defense HIV/AIDS prevention program since 2020. Under his leadership, the Gabonese military has trained more than 500 health workers, distributed more than 200,000 condoms and provided nearly 25,000 rapid diagnostic tests.

An Uncertain Future

Shortly after a controversial presidential election in 2023, the military overthrew President Ali Bongo. President Bongo’s family had been in power since 1967. New elections have taken place and General Brice Oligui Nguema has been sworn in as president. However, major international powers like the U.S. and France have yet to recognize his legitimacy as the Bongos were considered allies. While the U.S. Department of State announced it would discontinue almost all assistance that directly contributed to the Government of Gabon, it also announced that “humanitarian, health and education funding will continue.”

Reasons for Hope

Despite this recent political shakeup, the fight against HIV/AIDS in Gabon seems to be steadily on track. With one of the highest gross domestic product (GDP) per capita on the continent, there is hope that the oil-producing nation’s wealth will continue to grow and be more evenly distributed among its population. Until then, it is hoped that the work of international players will continue to help tackle HIV/AIDS in Gabon.

– Mason Borden

Mason is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Addressing HIV/AIDS in Libya

HIV/AIDS in LibyaIn Libya, the HIV/AIDS epidemic is characterized by a low but concentrated prevalence among drug users. Additionally, political, economic and societal stigma has exacerbated health care system challenges for those suffering. However, recent programs funded by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have led to progress, contributing to a decline in the rate of infection to 0.07 from 0.13 between 2010 and 2019. Despite this progress, there are still significant challenges.

Historical Context and Challenges

Libya first saw the appearance of the disease in 1986 when a Factor VIII contamination affected 24 hemophilia patients. In 1998, a tragic outbreak affected 400 children in Benghazi Hospital. Before the revolution in spring 2011, UNAIDS reported that international development partners found it difficult to work systematically in Libya. Society did not openly discuss AIDS, nor did it consider it a health priority. New data confirmed that the situation in Libya was worse than what officials previously reported.

Despite the low and concentrated epidemic among drug users in Libya, societal challenges persist. The United States’s (U.S.) 2018 Country Report cites no available information on societal violence toward persons with HIV/AIDS. However, it does mention reports of the Libyan government denying persons with HIV/AIDS permission to marry.

Additionally, it reported instances of segregation of detainees suspected of having the disease from the rest of the population in overcrowded spaces. In these cases, these people were often the last to receive medical treatment. In Libya, there is no specific law prohibiting discrimination based on age, gender, sexual orientation or HIV-positive status.

Interventions and Programs

Various interventions and programs have been implemented to address HIV/AIDS in Libya. In 2012, UNAIDS recommended drug substitution treatment and harm reduction measures such as voluntary, confidential counseling and testing, as well as the prevention of sexual transmission of HIV among drug users. This approach, which was implemented, centered around respecting the rights of drug users and worked to reduce the stigmatization of HIV/AIDS.

Furthermore, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) relaunched the second phase of the HIV project in Libya, focusing on the HIV prevention program among people injecting drugs in prison settings. The then-Libyan government funded the project. However, it was suspended in 2011 due to security problems and resumed the following year. Additionally, in 2019, officials implemented a program to prevent mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). However, ongoing internal conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic have hindered its effectiveness.

Collaboration with UNODC experts also led to an evaluation study on rehabilitation as a component of harm reduction. Trainers educated a group of medical assistants in communities with several committees such as Y-Peer and Libyan Red Crescent. These efforts aimed to support prevention and treatment initiatives at the community level.

Recent Efforts and Recommendations

Despite some progress, significant challenges remain in treating HIV/AIDS in Libya. In 2022, the WHO reported that although Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is free to all Libyan citizens, repeated stockouts have interrupted treatment and led to increasing numbers of people living with HIV being admitted to health facilities with advanced stages of the disease.

Additionally, only four of Libya’s eight ART centers are fully functioning and there are fewer than 10 HIV testing centers in the entire country. The stigma of HIV extends even to health care workers through their association with those who have HIV/AIDS due to misconceptions about the disease.

To improve the response to HIV/AIDS, the WHO has advocated for regular funding for the National Aids Program (NAP) and aligning its activities with the Regional Action Plan on HIV, hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Final Remark

Continued international support, enhanced infrastructure for testing and robust anti-stigma campaigns are crucial for addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Libya effectively. This could be achieved by collaborating with philanthropic organizations and foundations that focus on global health. By focusing on these areas, Libya can build a stronger, more inclusive response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, ultimately improving health outcomes for all.

– Nia Willis

Nia is based in Carmarthenshire, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Partners in Health Aids Poverty Reduction Through Health Care

Partners in HealthPartners in Health (PIH) is a nonprofit global health organization committed to providing better health care to people struggling with extreme poverty across 11 countries. PIH strives to build relationships with sister organizations in countries where poverty is a major issue, aiming to improve health care access. It achieves this through two main approaches: delivering the benefits of modern medical science to those most in need and serving as an antidote to despair.

Poor health care and overall health significantly contribute to poverty in a country’s population. Many people living in poverty cannot afford treatment, leading to untreated illnesses and long-term health issues. However, stronger health care systems enable developing countries to enhance the overall status of their health services. Providing better health care means the population is healthier, can work, attend school and thrive rather than survive. Additionally, improving health care in developing nations boosts the economy, as a healthier population is more productive, contributes more effectively to the workforce and stimulates economic growth.

Global Reach and Mental Health Initiatives

PIH operates in countries across four continents, including Haiti, Rwanda, Peru, Mexico, Malawi, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Lesotho, Kazakhstan and the United States (U.S.). The organization strengthens public health systems to ensure patients receive necessary care in their homes, local clinics or regional hospitals. Globally, PIH employs approximately 18,000 staff members, 99% of whom are from the countries where it serves.

PIH has established the Cross-Site Mental Health Program as one of its initiatives to support mental health development in the countries where it operates. Unlike many other NGOs, PIH strongly emphasizes community-based, primary care and hospital-linked mental health systems. This program addresses severe mental health conditions in areas that typically have little support for mental health.

Vision and Strategy for Mental Health Care

Many factors contribute to mental health issues, with some of the primary ones being homelessness or lack of home security, unemployment or unreliable income and family breakdowns, often due to the separation of families. While numerous other factors can affect mental health, many people living in poverty experience at least one of these issues. PIH aims to make the greatest impact on these individuals.

Partners in Health (PIH) aims to enhance the lives of poorer communities globally by increasing mental and psychological support in developing countries. Through its PIH Mental Health Value Chain, the organization strives to ensure that people receive the treatment they need, enabling them to lead better lives and escape poverty. The PIH model is built on four key pillars designed to improve mental health care in developing nations and enhance lives through better health care. The key pillars are as follows:

  • Clinical care and training. Mental health requires professionals trained to address such issues. Therefore, this pillar offers the necessary supervision and mentorship to support mental health initiatives.
  • Program management. This approach ensures that resources are directed in the most efficient ways to optimize their use.
  • Meaningful data collection. Research is essential for gaining a better understanding of issues in developing nations through monitoring and evaluation.
  • Shared learning. The Cross-Site Mental Health Learning Collaborative enhances understanding of mental health issues through both in-person and technological interactions.

Health Care Improvements in Haiti

By improving health care related to mental illnesses, developing nations can boost morale and begin to reduce poverty levels, as poverty and mental health issues are often interconnected. People experiencing poverty are typically more at risk of mental health issues, so addressing mental health can also help decrease poverty. An example of Partners in Health’s (PIH) efforts to provide better mental health care is its work in Haiti, a developing Caribbean island nation with a long history of economic and political turmoil, natural disasters and postcolonial exploitation.

PIH and its partners have developed a more reliable health care system in Haiti, previously unavailable in the country. The program has integrated mental health into primary care through a task-sharing model in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MOH). As a result, psychologists, social workers, nurses, physicians and community health workers have become more common in the country, enhancing health care provision. This improvement means that people living in poverty have better access to care and increased chances of recovery. An enhanced health care system benefits developing countries in four main ways: it boosts productivity, reduces absenteeism from work and school, decreases poverty and improves quality of life.

Looking Ahead

As Partners in Health (PIH) expands its efforts to provide health care and mental health services in impoverished regions, the organization continues to make a significant impact on global health outcomes. By collaborating with local entities and enhancing health care infrastructure, PIH is fostering resilience and a better quality of life for communities in need. Moving forward, its work in improving health care access and mental health support promises to contribute to the economic and social development of the countries it serves, leading to more sustainable and healthier futures.

– Lachlan Wellington

Lachlan is based in Fareham, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone

HIV/AIDS in Sierra LeoneDespite recent reductions in transmission rates of HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone, the lack of knowledge and stigmatism surrounding the condition, particularly among the younger population, could prevent the country from further minimizing the spread of the disease.

The Prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone

According to UNAIDS, there were 77,000 adults and children living with HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone in 2022, an incidence of 0.44 per 1,000 of the population. Of these people, 59,000 Sierra Leoneans know their status, shedding light on the increasing awareness of the disease within the nation.

However, this figure is below the 95-95-95 target from the UNAIDS Global AIDS Strategy. This outlines the organization’s aims for 95% of those living with HIV to know their status, 95% of these people to be on ART and 95% of those on treatment to be virally suppressed.

There has been progress towards this goal, however, with the country seeing a 39% reduction in new HIV infections and a 42% reduction in AIDS-related deaths since 2010. Furthermore, almost all of those affected by the disease are on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), in line with UNAIDS’s strategy and highlighting increased accessibility to the treatment.

Yet the prevalence of HIV/AIDS amongst the younger population of Sierra Leone remains relatively high. The World Bank indicates that 6,700 children aged 0 to 14 are living with the disease, yet only 1,704 are receiving ART, according to UNAIDS.

Gender-Based Inequalities

The gender-based inequalities of HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone amongst young women are also an issue for the nation. The prevalence rate of the disease is double for women (1%) compared to men (0.5%) and The National Institutes of Health also remarks that over a third of women have encountered at least one HIV risk factor, raising issues surrounding sexual violence towards young women and girls.

In 2019, UNAIDS named Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone, as champion for the charity, in hopes of raising awareness of the gender-based inequalities of HIV/AIDS infections. As “a strong advocate for the empowerment of girls and young women,” according to UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima, this position will hopefully produce more conversations on this issue, and mobilise the younger generation to become more conscious of the disease. By introducing the Hands Off Our Girls campaign, Maada Bio is striving to protect young women in Sierra Leone from rape and early marriages which are seen to be key factors in the transmission of HIV/AIDS in young women.

The Stigma

Awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone is key for changing preconceptions of the condition, and will hopefully mobilize more people to seek regular checkups and screenings. UNAIDS data shows that 67.1% of the population would not buy fresh vegetables from a shopkeeper with HIV, and a further 53% do not think that children living with the condition should be able to attend school with children who are HIV-negative. This highlights the social stigmatism towards HIV/AIDS that is still present in Sierra Leone.

Furthermore, amongst the younger Sierra Leoneans aged 15-24, only 29.13% know about HIV prevention. It is therefore imperative that information about the disease is accessible to young people, particularly about transmition, to reduce further infection rates.

With the HIV transmission rates falling, and the First Lady as the new champion of UNAIDS in the country, HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone could soon reach the goals of the 95-95-95 strategy. However, education amongst the younger population is vital to prevent the further spread of the disease and encourage more to get regular screening to receive life-saving treatment.

– Ben Kane

Ben is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Recent Outbreaks of HIV/AIDS in Venezuela

HIV/AIDS in VenezuelaWith a series of economic and political crises throughout the past decade, Venezuela has become increasingly vulnerable to the rampant spread of HIV with little public accessibility to safe-sex materials and practices. The nation has faced extreme shortages of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in both pharmaceutical and clinical settings, leading to inflated treatment rates. Although there are around 110,000 people expected to be living with HIV/AIDS in Venezuela as of 2020, only 55% have proper access to complete and consistent viral regimens. Tens of thousands of individuals are continuously defenseless to this chronic, deadly virus with many forced to migrate to surrounding nations in the hope of receiving life-saving treatment plans.

Deterioration of Health Care Systems

Venezuela was previously considered one of the most well-suited nations in South America to deter the severity of the HIV/AIDs crisis, instituting free, centralized ART treatment through government funding in 1990s. However, when faced with newfound economic challenges in the early 2010s—the price of oil, a leading export of the nation, drastically plummeting worldwide—many mechanisms necessary for proper maintenance of its healthcare systems began to deteriorate. Hospitals could no longer upkeep effective follow-up and control measures with inaccurate estimations of affected patients.

Amid economic upheaval, the monthly price for ART rose to around $95-100 per month, a burdening cost for low-income citizens. From 2011 to 2015, there was a 75% increase in HIV-related deaths, the greatest amount since 2000. By 2017, there were no hospitals containing ART drugs to distribute, with 85% of pharmacies facing drastic drug shortages. Only 26% of people with HIV were able to acquire regular ART regimens, and more than 90% of individuals who had registered for ART treatment directly through the government did not receive it.

Barriers to Prevention of HIV/AIDS in Venezuela

HIV is a chronic, rapidly evolving virus, with ART serving as a long-term health necessity for those impacted. As many found themselves depleted of sufficient ART treatments, whether due to the heightened cost or sheer unavailability across the nation, they resorted to other temporary strategies to improve their condition: partaking in intermittent treatments or partial-self dosing, oftentimes utilizing expired medication.

Recent research showcased at the 19th European AIDS Conference in 2023 indicated that intermittent dosing of ART drugs increased the overarching rate of virological failure, leading to “concerningly higher” rates of resistance to this therapy. Although intermittent treatment may be beneficial in the short-term, shaping into the next-best option for those unable to obtain regular ART dosages, its long-term sustainability is undermined by these unintended, potentially life-threatening consequences. Even with the 67% coverage of ART for people with HIV reached by 2022, only 7% have obtained an undetectable (un-transmittable) status, speaking to the continued demand for full, regular ART dosages.

The primary preventative measure for HIV/AIDs is the usage of condoms, allowing for the practice of safe sex without the possibility of transmitting the virus. However, inflation has caused the price of condoms in Venezuela to escalate to over three times the monthly minimum wage. Education on HIV prevention is still stigmatized, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals, leading to an inability to navigate and employ fundamental safety measures.

Marginalized Communities

The presence of HIV/AIDS in Venezuela has disproportionately affected marginalized groups, highlighting the ongoing discrepancies in ART access. In 2022, there are an estimated 15,000 transgender individuals in Venezuela, with an HIV prevalence rate of around 35.8%, according to the Humanitarian Practice Network (HPN). Additionally, men who have sex with men (MSM) were found to have an HIV prevalence rate of 23.3%, contrasting the national 0.5% of the total population in Venezuela. Alongside other systemic barriers, many have noted the lack of enforcement of anti-discrimination laws instated throughout the Venezuelan health care system, leaving many LGBTQ+ individuals deprived of proper viral regimens.

The Warao people, the second-largest indigenous group in Venezuela, are another demographic experiencing the severity of the HIV/AIDs crisis. There is an overall prevalence rate of 10% among their population, although many doctors have suggested this rate may be as high as 35% among males. Removed from ART and other treatment measures that can properly manage the virus, many HIV-positive members of the community have ultimately passed away after developing end-stage AIDs.

Solutions for HIV/AIDS in Venezuela

Without acquiring the necessary ART from the government, many people with HIV in Venezuela have been forced to migrate to surrounding nations with more inexpensive treatment options, according to the HPN. And yet, as they relocated, another issue of xenophobia arose: while ART was now objectively more accessible, there were new barriers to treatment including health prejudice and discrimination.

In 2020, UNAIDS established a partnership with UNESCO to allow Venezuelan migrants “health education, prevention, and health promotion,” centering a future-oriented approach to ending the HIV/AIDs crisis. This collaboration emphasizes the physical and mental well-being of Venezuelan migrants, promoting sex education curriculums that prevent the onset of violence and discrimination. Activists have similarly focused on improving care for those living with HIV, such as Nilsa Hernandez, founder of Valientes Por La Vida (Brave for Life). A Venezuelan herself, she crossed the border to Brazil to continue receiving ART after being depleted of immunity for over two years. Hernandez hopes to support other migrants with HIV with guidance on adapting to life in Brazil, providing them with the necessary resources to navigate the country while obtaining access to viral regimens.

The rebuilding of Venezuela’s health care system—with international organizations continuously supporting migrants and other marginalized groups—reveals a hopeful path to mitigating HIV/AIDs in Venezuela by 2030.

– Eileen Lincoln

Eileen is based in Fairfax, VA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Lassa Fever in Nigeria

Lassa Fever in Nigeria Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic illness, was first identified in the town of Lassa in northeastern Nigeria. The primary reservoir of this virus is the multimammate rat, a common sight across West Africa. Human infection typically occurs through exposure to food or household items contaminated with the urine or feces of infected rats. The symptoms of Lassa fever can range from mild to severe, including fever, headache, sore throat and muscle aches. In severe cases, the disease can progress to hemorrhaging, organ failure and even death. Each year, Lassa fever affects between 100,000 to 300,000 people in West Africa, with an estimated 5,000 deaths.

Socioeconomic Impact

The disease’s prevalence is particularly pronounced in Nigeria and has become a significant public health concern. The country’s endemic status is exacerbated by socioeconomic conditions, including widespread poverty. In regions where Lassa fever is rampant, many households lack the means to maintain proper sanitation and secure food storage, creating ideal conditions for rodent infestations. In addition, limited access to health care services and inadequate infrastructure hinder timely diagnosis and treatment, compounding the disease’s impact.

Lassa Fever and Global Poverty

The disease’s transmission is closely tied to environmental and socioeconomic factors. In addition, the changing climate is exacerbating the situation. Hotter and drier conditions drive rodents into human habitats for food and water, increasing the risk of transmission. As these environmental changes unfold, the interplay between Lassa fever and global poverty becomes starkly evident. Poverty-stricken communities, often lacking adequate housing and sanitation, are more susceptible to rodent infestations, thereby heightening their risk of contracting the virus.

The health infrastructure in impoverished regions is typically under-resourced, making early diagnosis and effective treatment more challenging. Health care costs and limited access to medical facilities mean that many affected individuals cannot afford or access timely medical care, leading to higher mortality rates. The burden of Lassa fever in Nigeria thus reflects the broader issue of global poverty, where infectious diseases disproportionately impact vulnerable populations.

Public Health Response

Health authorities and strategic planners in Nigeria have implemented a multifaceted public health response to Lassa fever, involving immediate medical interventions and long-term strategies to reduce transmission. In fact, the country hosted the first Lassa fever treatment trials in 40 years. These trials mark a critical step forward in finding effective treatments for this devastating disease. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving local health authorities, international organizations and pharmaceutical companies, highlighting the global recognition of the need to combat Lassa fever.

Strengthening Health Infrastructure

The World Health Organization (WHO) has played a pivotal role in supporting Nigeria’s response to Lassa fever outbreaks. The WHO is strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing diagnostic capacities and training health care workers as part of its comprehensive strategy. These efforts ensure that health care workers detect and manage cases of Lassa fever in Nigeria promptly, thereby reducing the potential for widespread outbreaks. Furthermore, the WHO emphasizes the importance of community engagement and education to raise awareness about preventive measures, such as proper food storage and hygiene practices to limit rodent exposure.

Economic Considerations

The economic burden of Lassa fever in Nigeria extends beyond the immediate health impacts. Outbreaks can disrupt local economies, as affected individuals cannot work and health care costs soar. This further entrenches poverty, making it harder for communities to recover and prevent future outbreaks. International support, such as funding for research and health care infrastructure improvements, is vital in breaking this cycle. The global community’s investment in combating Lassa fever in Nigeria underscores the interconnectedness of health and poverty and the need for a coordinated, sustained response to address both issues simultaneously.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to combat Lassa fever in Nigeria involve significant collaboration among local health authorities, international organizations and pharmaceutical companies. These initiatives focus on strengthening disease surveillance, improving diagnostic capabilities and educating communities about preventive measures, with hopes of alleviating Lassa fever.

– Maya DaSilva

Maya is based in Seattle, WA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Paper Technology is Supporting Postural Care in Kenya

How Paper Technology is Supporting Postural Care in KenyaIn Kenya, the joint partnership between APT for Social Development (APT4SD) and The Potters House has been instrumental in providing bespoke postural support devices for people with disabilities. APT4SD secured a grant of £14,232.00 from the Wales and Africa Grant Scheme in 2022-23 to carry out this work. In addition to its activities in Kenya, the charity also conducts workshops in Wales to teach Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) skills for mental health and emotional wellbeing. The training in Kenya focuses on enabling nurses to identify children needing postural care and training artisans to create customized furniture, which also helps fund the project by selling household items.

Understanding Appropriate Paper Technology (APT)

Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) offers an affordable solution by recycling materials like cardboard, paper and nylon tights into sturdy, lightweight support devices. At the Potters House CBO workshop, the construction process involves layering thick cardboard with a flour and water mixture and reinforcing it with used nylon tights. These support devices are then covered with old newspapers or paper bags and decorated. This method not only provides essential support to children in need but also facilitates financial support for their families through employment in device production.

Impact and Outreach of the Project

The project’s impact is significant, with 145 support devices created and 721 children and adults benefiting from the services. The project has established new APT workshops and trained 17 Kenyan therapists in postural care. These ongoing initiatives demonstrate the project’s commitment to providing immediate aid and promoting sustainable development through education and skill-building.

NHS Education for Scotland highlights the importance of postural care in preventing complications in various body parts such as hips, knees, spine and pelvis. Without appropriate care, individuals can suffer from severe physical deformities and health issues, impacting their ability to perform daily functions and reducing their quality of life.

Poverty Alleviation

The importance of postural care in Kenya extends beyond individual health to address broader socioeconomic challenges. According to UNICEF’s 2022 report, more than half of Kenyans face multidimensional poverty, with even higher rates among children with cerebral palsy. The efforts of APT4SD and The Potters House play a vital role in supporting impoverished families, illustrating the critical link between health care interventions and poverty alleviation.

Looking Ahead

The innovative approach of Appropriate Paper Technology (APT) promises to expand its impact, offering sustainable postural support and livelihood opportunities across Kenya. Continued collaboration between local and international partners could be crucial to enhance the scope and reach of these empowering projects. Moreover, by addressing the intertwined challenges of health and poverty, APT4SD and The Potters House are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive future for individuals with disabilities.

– Rachael Denton-Snape

Rachael is based in High Wycombe, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Breakthroughs in Malaria Treatment and Global Advocacy

Breakthroughs in Malaria Treatment and Global AdvocacyIn 2022, more than 40% of countries experienced malaria outbreaks, resulting in approximately 249 million infections. Although malaria is preventable and curable, the most severe cases occur in regions with fragile health care systems, primarily in the developing world’s poorest countries. Malaria treatment is crucial in these areas, where the disease is both a cause and effect of poverty.

Malaria’s Impact and Transmission

Malaria, a deadly parasite, spreads through specific mosquito species and not directly from person to person, except through contaminated needles or blood transfusions. This disease can cause severe illness and death within just 24 hours of infection. In 2020, malaria claimed more lives in Africa than COVID-19, with four countries alone contributing to 50% of the global malaria death toll. Tragically, in Africa, 80% of malaria fatalities among children occur before their fifth birthday. An estimated 40 million children in the region could benefit from a malaria vaccine.

Celebrity Advocacy: David Beckham’s Role

David Beckham, an iconic English football star, achieved fame playing under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, where he contributed to winning six Premier League titles. Since retiring, Beckham has leveraged his status to advocate for various causes. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2005, he supports the #TogetherBand Campaign and has long championed the fight against malaria. He has backed Malaria No More UK since 2009 and was the face of the world’s first voice petition to end malaria with MalariaMustDie in 2019.

Advances in Malaria Treatment

Scientists have actively pursued new malaria treatments and vaccines since the 1980s, achieving notable success with the RTS,S/AS01 (RTS,S) vaccine. Since 2019, this new treatment has been administered in Ghana, Kenya and Malawi, reaching more than two million people and reducing early childhood deaths from all causes by 13%. The vaccine primarily benefits children who lack other forms of malaria protection. An expanded rollout to 18 additional countries has been approved, although vaccine supplies remain limited.

In 2023, the successful introduction of the first malaria vaccine was followed by the launch of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine, which boasts a 75% efficacy rate, meeting a World Health Organization (WHO) target that the 2019 vaccine did not meet. Adrian Hill, the chief investigator for the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, asserts that it represents the most effective single intervention against malaria due to its scalability and affordability, costing only $3.90 per dose.

Future Directions and Global Impact

Organizations such as Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, are actively developing strategies to distribute this lifesaving vaccine. Their roadmap projects a need for up to 60 million doses by 2026 and 100 million doses annually by 2030. Their mission focuses on promoting the equitable and sustainable use of vaccines. They collaborate with major partners including the WHO, UNICEF, the World Bank and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to save lives globally.

Looking Forward: Progress in Malaria Treatment

This new malaria treatment is crucial as previous methods have shown limitations. Mosquitoes carrying malaria have developed resistance to insecticides used to control their population and the parasite itself is increasingly resistant to current oral malaria drugs. In an interview with Nadine Dreyer and HealthWorld, Adrian Hill states that the fight against malaria is gaining momentum and he is aware of other vaccines in development. With ongoing innovations in vaccinations and the expansion of global distribution for existing treatments, there is a greater chance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, which the escalating threat from malaria could otherwise hinder.

– Rachael Denton-Snape

Rachael is based in High Wycombe, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr