Archive for category: Disease

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Addressing Diseases Impacting South Africa

Diseases Impacting South AfricaIn 2023, data that the World Bank published showed that 55% of South Africans as living below the poverty line. Of those South Africans experiencing poverty, a 2023 national study found these citizens were twice as at risk of the communicable disease HIV. For the southernmost nation on the African continent, existing diseases are separated into two categories: communicable and non-communicable. Despite easy transmission of communicable diseases, 2019 World Health Organization (WHO) statistics show that non-communicable diseases account for 51% of all national deaths. With high prevalence rates of both infection varieties among those experiencing poverty, the stifling effects of Apartheid policy remain central within the national struggle to curb diseases impacting South Africa.

Communicable Diseases 

The three most prevalent communicable diseases impacting South Africa are malaria, tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS. Malaria mitigation strategies have been largely successful. In line with the 2021 Global Technical Strategy (GTS) for Malaria, WHO found that the number of South Africans at risk dropped to a low 10% of the population that same year. In South Africa, particularly the Kwazulu-Natal district, which contains one of the highest incidence rates of TB around the world, TB impacted 427 of 100,000 people in 2023. Positively, this incidence rate has fallen since 2021, where TB affected 512 per 100,000 citizens.

Following the United Nations (UN) AIDS 95-95-95 target, South Africa has also made promising strides in HIV/AIDS mitigation. Though 2023 figures show that 16.3% of South Africans are living with HIV, screenings and treatment have improved. Striving towards this 95-95-95 UN target, 94% of South Africans living with HIV knew their diagnosis, 79% were receiving treatment and 91% were being virally suppressed in 2021.

Non-Communicable Diseases 

The other half of diseases impacting South Africa are non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, cancer and diabetes. In 2021, the collective incidence rate for these particular NCDs stood at 1,301 per 100,000 people. Obesity, which increases the risk for these NCDs, represents another health indicator impacting South African morbidity. Along with WHO’s other findings, it found that 30.8% of the adult population suffered from obesity in 2022, up from 2021.

Health System

The national healthcare system mainly initiates response to diseases impacting South Africa. The Department of Health’s inadequate health care response is typically pinpointed to policy carried over from the nation’s apartheid era. After the 1994 end to apartheid law, the government faced the ongoing challenge of restructuring the health care system. Despite this, the WHO has projected that 6.2 million citizens should experience universal health coverage by the end of this year. This number represents a steady, sharp increase from 2021 where only 1.8 million retained universal health care access. 

Impact of Poverty 

A 2023 study conducted with support from the South African government articulated that HIV, one of the most nationally prevalent communicable diseases, affects those living in townships twice as severely as those living elsewhere. Townships are South African neighborhoods inhabited primarily by those experiencing poverty. The study found that socioeconomic factors like access to stable housing and quality education do increase the odds of HIV infection and reduce the likelihood of access to testing and care. The researchers recommended a mitigation strategy that includes policy towards improving education and living quality.

Another national study from 2021 asserted that to address the reality of health care inaccessibility due to societal inequities, there needs to be cohesive efforts from multiple actors. The study calls on the necessity of both government and non-state intervention.

Doctors Without Borders

One international organization working diligently against the spread and prevalence of disease in South Africa is Doctors Without Borders (MSF). With the United States currently slashing its funding of South Africa’s TB and HIV/AIDS research programs, MSF has been vital in calling upon international donors, organizations and philanthropists to direct funds towards these life-saving research initiatives. Actors like the South African Department of Health and MSF rely on these funds to help develop promising vaccines and treatments for those experiencing these diseases impacting South Africa.

In addition to MSF’s TB and HIV/AIDS research, where funding is unsteady, it recently introduced a new project aimed at addressing South African NCDs. In collaboration with South Africa’s Department of Health, MSF has been training health care organizations across the Eastern Cape province of Butterworth. Reaching more than 1,500 people within the region, the project has increased the screening and medical management of NCDs like diabetes and hypertension.

Progress

Though funding cuts from the United States have caused uncertainty about the future of national research and mitigation response, strides in health care coverage and the involvement of organizations like the MSF are promising for the future of eliminating the diseases impacting South Africa. National initiatives for screening and improvements in treatment technologies have greatly improved and have been key in addressing and reducing incidence rates, particularly for the highly prevalent TB. In 2019 alone, testing for TB caused a 28% reduction in incidence.

With organizations and donors allocating funds towards national efforts to fight disease, South Africa will further mitigate the spread and prevalence of such harmful illnesses, particularly for those living in poverty.

– Piper Aweeka

Piper is based in Reno, NV, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Schistosomiasis in Angola: A Local Strategy With Global Impact

Schistosomiasis in Angola: A Local Strategy With Global ImpactSchistosomiasis in Angola continues to pose a major threat to public health- especially for school-aged children in rural, water-reliant communities. Caused by parasitic worms that infect humans through contact with contaminated freshwater, schistosomiasis can lead to fatigue, anemia and developmental delays. With more than 90% of districts at risk, Angola faces one of the highest burdens of this neglected tropical disease (NTD) in sub-Saharan Africa.

To combat this issue, Angola’s Ministry of Health, backed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) such as The MENTOR Initiative, has implemented an innovative, school-based response. These campaigns provide mass deworming treatments using praziquantel, reinforce hygiene education and promote access to clean water and sanitation. This integrative model not only lowers infection rates but also improves school attendance and overall child development.

Understanding the Disease Burden

“Children are especially vulnerable as they play in the water and often don’t understand the risks,” a local health worker based in the Huila, Huambo and Zaire provinces told The Borgen Project in an interview. “We saw many children with swollen bellies and constant fatigue. Now, after regular deworming and hygiene education, those symptoms are much less common.”

Schistosomiasis in Angola has long plagued rural Angola, where many communities depend on rivers and lakes for everyday activities such as bathing, washing and even drinking. According to WHO, chronic schistosomiasis can lead to liver and kidney damage, cognitive delays and an increased risk of school absenteeism. Recent mapping by The MENTOR Initiative reveals a troubling overlap between schistosomiasis and other parasitic infections like soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). This dual burden is particularly pronounced in Angola’s south-central provinces, where more than 70% of school-aged children are at risk.

School-Based Campaigns: A Scalable Solution

Angola’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with WHO, has responded with mass deworming campaigns centered around schools. “We coordinate with teachers and school staff,” the health worker explained. “They help us organize the children and explain the treatment to them in simple terms.” Parents are also engaged through community meetings, which help build trust and transparency around the medication process. These campaigns utilize praziquantel, the WHO-recommended drug for schistosomiasis treatment. In addition to being safe and affordable, praziquantel is effective with a single dose and is ideally suited for distribution in school settings.

According to a six‑year impact assessment of Angola’s school‑based deworming program, schistosomiasis monitoring covered nearly 600 schools between 2015 and 2021, revealing persistent transmission in multiple provinces. As a result, soil-transmitted helminth-endemic regions received deworming treatments, hygiene supplies and health education. These combined efforts have led to improved child health outcomes and increased school participation. Studies show that deworming enhances children’s physical well-being and “It’s not just about treating the disease, it’s about giving these kids a better chance at life”, the local source tells The Borgen Project.

Hygiene Education and Infrastructure

The success of deworming programs in Angola depends on an integrated approach. Medication alone cannot stop the cycle of reinfection, especially in rural areas where poor sanitation and limited access to clean water drive continued transmission. To address this, school-based campaigns include hygiene education that teaches students proper handwashing, safe defecation and how to avoid contaminated water. Schools also act as community hubs, spreading these practices to families. Some schools receive additional support through partnerships with NGOs and government agencies, gaining improved facilities like latrines, handwashing stations and water filtration systems.

WHO highlights that combining water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) measures with deworming efforts can reduce transmission by more than 75%. This underscores the importance of holistic strategies for lasting impact.

Data-Driven Targeting

Disease mapping has played a critical role in Angola’s national response to schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). In collaboration with Angola’s Ministry of Health, the MENTOR Initiative conducted large-scale parasitological surveys across all 18 provinces. These surveys, involving more than 1.6 million school-aged children, used stool and urine sampling along with geospatial tools to determine prevalence rates and identify high-risk transmission zones.

The mapping results allowed for the strategic targeting of mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns, ensuring that treatment was concentrated in areas with the highest disease burden. By using prevalence thresholds recommended by WHO, Angola was able to tailor the frequency and intensity of treatment to the needs of each province. In addition to guiding the delivery of preventive chemotherapy, the data also support long-term monitoring, policy decision-making and evaluation of program impact.

Challenges and Local Resilience

Despite efforts, schistosomiasis in Angola continues to face several operational and infrastructural challenges. Limited access to clean water and adequate sanitation facilities in many rural areas contributes to persistent reinfection rates. Even with periodic MDA, the lack of improved WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) infrastructure undermines sustained disease control.

The program is also constrained by logistical difficulties such as inconsistent medicine supply chains and a shortage of trained personnel for implementation and monitoring. Regardless, integration of the deworming program into the existing school-based health system has helped optimize outreach and reduce costs. Capacity-building initiatives for local staff, as well as coordination with multiple stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and international partners, have strengthened the program’s delivery and laid the foundation for more sustainable control efforts.

A Model Grounded in Elimination, Not Just Control

Angola’s approach mirrors a growing call in public health to shift from reactive control toward proactive elimination of schistosomiasis. As emphasized in Frontiers in Public Health, long-term success requires more than drug distribution; it depends on a systems-thinking model that integrates treatment with behavioral change, hygiene, snail control and environmental improvements.

By using schools as delivery platforms, Angola addresses multiple layers of disease transmission- medical, educational and ecological. This multifaceted approach offers a replicable blueprint for other countries. “The key is to involve the community and combine treatment with education and clean water,” the local health worker explained. “It’s not enough to give medicine- you have to change the environment and the habits. Angola’s model is working here and I believe it can help others, too.”

Health, Education and Hope

The integrated approach to fighting schistosomiasis in Angola demonstrates how local solutions, when grounded in data, education and community engagement, can spark meaningful change. With continued investment in health systems and infrastructure, the country is not just treating a disease but empowering a generation of children to learn, grow and thrive.

– Vasara Mikulevicius

Vasara is based in West Bloomfield, MI, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Diseases Impacting Ethiopia

Diseases Impacting EthiopiaEthiopia is a country in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia is home to 126 million people. It is the second most populous country in Africa, behind Nigeria. Ethiopia is known for being the cradle of humanity. However, many different diseases are impacting Ethiopia, which have made the lives of its citizens difficult.

Neglected Tropical Diseases

Millions of Ethiopians are at risk of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). NTDs are a group of diseases primarily caused by pathogens (such as bacteria, viruses and parasites). Ethiopia has Africa’s third-largest number of NTDs, behind Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Similarly, Ethiopia has the highest number of cases of diseases such as trachoma, podoconiosis and cutaneous leishmaniasis in all of sub-Saharan Africa. It has the second highest number of cases involving ascariasis, leprosy and visceral leishmaniasis. And it has the third highest number of cases involving hookworms.

Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are also prevalent across Ethiopia. The most common contagious diseases in Ethiopia are HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia stands at around 1.5%. While this is lower than Africa’s average, it’s still higher than the global average (0.7%).

The prevalence of malaria in the country is about 0.39% to 1.1%. Research showed that population density was a standard variable in the spread of all three infectious diseases. Low urbanity and low population density correlate with a lower risk for contagious diseases.

Government Efforts

Ethiopia is still a developing country. About 68.7% of Ethiopians suffer from multidimensional poverty and a further 18% are at risk of doing so. Impoverished people are the most vulnerable to NTDs. Those living in extreme poverty lack access to proper health care and basic health services. They also live in areas where vectors of infectious diseases thrive.

However, the Ethiopian government has taken active steps to combat both NTDs and other infectious diseases. In 1999, the country developed a national plan to address onchocerciasis. The Ministry of Health established the National Onchocerciasis Task Force the following year. This task force focused on mobilizing and educating affected communities and distributing Mectizan tablets to help control the disease.

The Ethiopian Ministry of Health also established the National Dracunculiasis Eradication Program in 1993. In collaboration with The Carter Center, Ethiopia launched a national program to combat lymphatic filariasis. Additionally, the country has implemented several programs and strategies targeting other neglected tropical diseases, including podoconiosis, soil-transmitted helminths, schistosomiasis, leishmaniasis and leprosy.

Conclusion

Ethiopia continues to struggle with the burden of infectious and noninfectious tropical diseases, which disproportionately affect its underserved communities. While the challenges are significant, the country’s proactive health initiatives and partnerships offer hope. Sustained investment in public health, education and poverty reduction is essential to combat the diseases impacting Ethiopia and improve health outcomes for millions.

– Samriddha Aryal

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

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Sterile Fly Barrier in Central America Saves Lives

Sterile Fly BarrierThe parasitic fly Cochliomyia hominivorax, commonly known as the New‑World screwworm (NWS), inflicts the devastating disease myiasis on livestock by burrowing its larvae into living tissue. Since the 1950s, Panama has maintained a pioneering sterile fly barrier in Central America to halt its northward spread.

More than 100 million sterilized male flies are released each week along the Panama–Colombia border, ensuring that emerging females lay infertile eggs and preventing NWS populations from taking hold. For rural communities, many people live in extreme poverty, protecting their herds often means the difference between starvation and survival.

The Screwworm’s Mode of Attack

Female NWS flies deposit eggs in fresh wounds. Within hours, the larvae hatch and begin excavating into living flesh in a spiraling motion that inspired its common name. As these maggots feed, they create deep, pus‑filled lesions that, without prompt removal, lead to severe inflammation, systemic infection and often the death of the animal.

Historically, livestock owners resorted to harsh chemical larvicides, branding techniques or manual extraction to combat infestations. These methods were costly, traumatic for the animals and frequently insufficient to prevent herd-wide losses.

Operation of the Barrier System

The Panama–U.S. Commission for the Eradication and Prevention of Screwworm (COPEG) oversees the production and release of sterile flies. In a specialized rearing facility near Pacora, screwworm larvae are raised on artificial diets under strict international standards before being sterilized using gamma irradiation.

The resulting sterile males are dispersed from aircraft across the Darien region to establish a continuous barrier. Since its permanent establishment in 2004, this sterile fly barrier in Central America has prevented reinvasion from South American endemic zones and safeguarded livestock populations to the north.

Economic Impact and Performance Metrics

Before the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) was implemented, screwworm infestations caused annual losses exceeding $300 million in Central America through animal deaths and treatment expenses. At the same time, the U.S. faced more than $900 million in direct costs each year. By neutralizing reinvasion threats, the barrier delivers an estimated $1.3 billion in annual economic benefits across the region. On a household level, smallholder farmers gain an additional $200 to $300 per year, resources that can be allocated to nutrition, education and health care.

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) emphasizes that impoverished livestock owners, who often hold only a few animals as their sole asset, are disproportionately affected by parasitic outbreaks. Furthermore, the loss of even a single bovine can plunge a family into an existential crisis. By protecting up to four million of the most vulnerable rural residents in Mexico and Central America, the sterile fly barrier in Central America secures their primary source of income and food. This directly interrupts the cycle of extreme poverty and prevents further social deprivation.

Future Outlook

With climate instability accelerating parasite migration and global trade increasing the risk of cross‑border spread, sustained funding for COPEG remains essential. Moreover, the SIT model holds promise for tackling other myiasis‑causing species and livestock diseases. Expanding this approach to additional endemic areas could further stabilize agricultural livelihoods and serve as a cornerstone strategy for global poverty reduction.

– Alexander Broermann

Alexander is based in Frankfurt am Main, Germany and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Bulgaria’s Air Quality and Disease Prevention

Bulgaria's Air QualityBulgaria’s public health initiatives prioritize air quality and disease prevention. They address critical issues that disproportionately affect low-income communities and exacerbate poverty, promoting a healthier and more equitable society.

Breathe Sofia

In September 2022, the city of Sofia, Bulgaria, launched Breathe Sofia, a project aimed at improving air quality in one of the country’s most polluted cities. It focuses on protecting vulnerable populations by building public support for stronger policies, offering technical guidance for regulations and sharing international best practices.

By reducing air pollution, these efforts can help alleviate poverty by lowering health care costs and improving quality of life, especially for communities most affected by environmental disparities. Beyond health benefits, air pollution reduction also promotes social equity. It supports children’s well-being in impacted areas, increases economic participation and reinforces Bulgaria’s commitment to inclusive development under the European Union’s (EU) sustainability goals.

Bulgaria’s Air Quality

Bulgaria has also launched the New Operational Program on the Environment, allocating $1.77 billion to address water and waste management, biodiversity and air pollution. Since 2021, the program has helped provide cleaner air for 1.3 million people.

Furthermore, as part of its broader sustainability agenda, Bulgaria has prioritized emissions reduction through the National Program for the Improvement of Ambient Air Quality. This strategy drove significant progress between 2018 and 2024, with emissions falling by 66.5%. This reduction directly benefits low-income families by providing cleaner air and supporting healthier, more sustainable living conditions.

Addressing Diseases

To address cancer and chronic diseases, Bulgaria has joined the Joint Action to Prevent Noncommunicable Diseases and Cancer (JA PreventNCD), a three-year EU-funded health initiative. The project aims to reduce the burden of cancer and other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) across Europe by supporting 22 EU Member States, along with Iceland, Norway and Ukraine. It also focuses on tackling social inequalities linked to NCD risk factors.

With NCDs disproportionately affecting marginalized communities, JA PreventNCD targets the root causes by addressing the link between poverty and poor health. The initiative acknowledges the unequal impact of NCDs on lower socioeconomic groups and promotes equitable access to prevention and care. By focusing on prevention and healthier lifestyles, JA PreventNCD aims to reduce health problems, ease the economic burden of NCDs and contribute to poverty reduction.

Bulgaria’s commitment to rare disease recognition took a major leap in 2005 when it joined the J Project, a Central and Eastern European initiative focused on primary immune deficiencies. Ten years later, this progress led to the establishment of a dedicated expert center at the university hospital. The center provides families in low-resource communities with access to specialized care for rare diseases.

Final Remarks

As Bulgaria works to improve the quality of life for its citizens, it collaborates with national and international programs aimed at disease prevention and air pollution reduction. Supported by initiatives like the Clean Air Fund and the EU partnerships, these efforts create healthier environments and expand access to essential resources in underserved communities through public health and sustainability investments. Indeed, they help pave the way for a more equitable and resilient future.

– Karisma Polly

Karisma is based in Sunrise, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Drones Reducing Tuberculosis in Nepal

Tuberculosis in Nepal: How Drones are Helping Tuberculosis has long affected rural nations across the globe, but the crisis in Nepal is particularly concerning. In 2023, 68,000 people in the country had tuberculosis, nearly a third of whom died. Tuberculosis also remains among the top five causes of death in Nepal. Exacerbated by limited access to medical treatment and high transmission rates, the disease continues to pose a serious threat. However, new technologies—including drones—offer potential solutions that could transform health care delivery in Nepal and beyond. 

A Persistent Threat in Nepal

Tuberculosis is a serious infectious bacterial disease that spreads through coughs and sneezes. When detected and treated early, it is both preventable and curable. However, geographic and economic barriers make tuberculosis more difficult to manage in Nepal. Approximately 50% of Nepalis must travel between six and eight hours to reach a health care facility. It is the isolation and lack of infrastructure in the rural regions, where 80% of Nepalis reside, that deepens the inaccessibility of medical care. With these roadblocks, fewer citizens actively seek out care and the diagnosis of tuberculosis is consistently delayed. As a result, almost 70% of Nepalis are carriers of the disease and may face serious consequences in the future.

The Danger of Delayed Treatment

Once exposed to tuberculosis, it is important to seek out medical care quickly to begin treatment and prevent the spread of this potentially deadly disease. However, because seeking medical treatment in Nepal is such a burden, many seek it out very infrequently or not at all. The longer people wait to seek tuberculosis treatment, the more serious the illness can become. By waiting for an official diagnosis and treatment, they risk increased rates of community transmission and potential health issues. This transmission and these complications have led to significant economic decline. Many become bedridden or unable to work as a result of the disease, leading to increased poverty rates. Telemedicine, however, is making notable progress. Organizations have begun using drones to diagnose and treat tuberculosis patients more efficiently.

Using Drones to Fight Tuberculosis in Nepal

A number of institutions, including WeRobotics, Stony Brook University and Nepal Flying Labs, have been utilizing cargo drones to combat tuberculosis in Nepal. These drones collect samples from individuals suspected of having tuberculosis and deliver them for testing. The same drones also help administer treatment. Tuberculosis treatment often spans several months, making it difficult for patients in remote areas to complete. However, with the support of these drones, a technology known as e-DOTS can facilitate therapy remotely.

Building Toward Health Equity

The efforts made by these international organizations are enabling tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment. Technology like these drones is not only helping to reduce the prevalence of tuberculosis, but also represents a step toward bringing medical care to rural areas in need. Telemedicine is actively empowering rural communities by providing access to timely care. So far, these drones have tested more than 700 people in rural Nepali communities. It is the hope of many that technology like this will continue to cross borders and support international poverty reduction.

– Caroline May

Caroline is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Strengthening Disease Prevention in Sudan 

Disease Prevention in SudanSudan has faced severe conflicts creating detrimental humanitarian crises, crippling its health care systems and leading to increases of fatal diseases, including malaria and cholera. This humanitarian crisis has left 15.8 million people in need of humanitarian aid. With this conflict increasing constantly, it has now left half of Sudan’s population (30.4 million) people in desperate need of aid. Where refugee camps have been set up to provide aid to people has contributed to this increase in diseases by providing poor sanitation, enabling the spread of these diseases. Here is information about disease prevention in Sudan.

Health Challenges Under Conflict

A major challenge Sudan faces in tackling the spread of disease and poverty begins with child immunization. The most prevalent diseases within Sudan include malaria, cholera, measles and dengue fever affecting 3.4 million children under the age of 5 years old. Ongoing conflict has severely disrupted vaccination efforts, worsening children’s access to aid as well as making it increasingly difficult to reach these children with essential, life-saving immunizations. While UNICEF continues to provide critical support in delivering vaccines, sustained investment and stability are essential to protecting public health. UNICEF has been providing support to Sudan since 1952, and in 2024, it helped more than 9.8 million Sudanese individuals access sanitary water and provided education and psychosocial care to 2.7 million children and caregivers. To effectively prevent the spread of infectious diseases, Sudan must prioritize the restoration and continuity of its national immunization program.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) represent the leading cause of morbidity worldwide, accounting for 71% of global deaths, and they are becoming more and more prevalent in Sudan. Data from the NCD Progress Monitor shows that the percentage of NCD related mortality had increased from 32% in 2015 to 54% in 2022. Sudan’s progress in implementing NDC policies has been slow as the country achieved five of the 19 NCD targets in 2022.

Organizations Assisting Sudan

Despite immense challenges, several global aid organizations are making an impact, including UNICEF and World Vision who have enabled Sudan’s development by helping individuals who have been directly affected by this ongoing conflict by providing necessary education, food and water and shelter. World Vision has been able to reach more than 3 million individuals, providing them with emergency assistance in Sudan’s unstable climate, making a significant impact. These organizations help to boost social development in Sudan, ultimately aiding them to reduce levels of poverty and increase individual’s livelihoods.

Action Against Hunger is an organization that is fixated on providing care to individuals experiencing this violence and ongoing conflict. It has been working in Sudan since 1985 to provide fresh water and food as well as malnutrition treatment to those deprived of food. From 2023-2024, it has helped more than 815,000 Sudanese people access food by working in 15 different locations in Sudan to reach the optimum number of people. This organization has also been growing rice in flood waters and farming onions, helping to create new emergency services and rebuild livelihoods, ultimately contributing to the resistance of poverty in Sudan.

Advancing With Sustainability and Purpose 

After the breakout of the war in 2023, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) established a prevalent presence in Al Jazirah State where health and nutrition services were provided and assisted 400,000 Sudanese refugees prior to the War. The IRC established a WASH program – which is an integrated water, sanitation and hygiene program – to help disease prevention in Sudan. 

– Carise Wallbank

Carise is based in the UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Health Care Crisis: 4 Diseases Impacting Kenya

Diseases Impacting KenyaKenya’s health care system has profoundly suffered as problems like corruption, lack of adequate resources, systemic malpractice, suboptimal policy-making, and Kenya’s ever-increasing poverty rates, amongst other severe issues, pervade Kenya’s fragile health care sector. The current climate crisis has also ignited further issues regarding Kenya’s health care system, as the rate of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) has drastically increased in recent years. Here are four diseases impacting Kenya.

Malaria

In 2022, Kenya reported around 5 million cases of malaria, with more than 12,000 Kenyans dying as a result of the outbreak. Lack of rainfall and high temperatures have exacerbated the already dire risk of Malaria contamination, as Kenya’s lack of rainfall has created environmental conditions that are highly conducive to Malaria exposure.

Extreme changes in Kenya’s weather patterns have attracted a breed of mosquito, Anopheles Stephensi, which serves as an avid transmitter of malaria. Studies have concluded that the resurgence of the Anopheles Stephensi population in Kenya could potentially expose around 126 million Kenyans to Malaria.

HIV/AIDS

Kenya currently has the seventh largest percentage of people infected with AIDS/HIV globally. Due to the erroneous distribution of health care facilities across Kenya, faulty educational policies and cultural/systemic gender norms, AIDS/HIV reigns as one of the leading causes of death in Kenya. The HIV/AIDS epidemic disproportionately affects women, especially young women (15-24), as women and young girls make up two-thirds of the current percentage of Kenyans living with AIDS/HIV. The current U.S. foreign aid freeze has only exacerbated this issue, as foreign aid has historically accounted for 40% of Kenya’s HIV/AID preventative resource supply.

Cholera

Kenya has historically been a hotspot for frequent Cholera outbreaks and has continued to affect the Kenyan population due to poor sanitation infrastructure and lack of access to clean water. Heavily populated areas like refugee camps, informal settlements, and other highly populated and poorly regulated areas have especially served as hotspots for Cholera contamination.

While efforts like nationwide vaccine distribution, an increase in research towards Cholera prevention/preparedness, and an increase in policy highlighting health care reform in Kenya have helped mitigate outbreaks in recent years, Kenya has had a Cholera outbreak almost every single year since its first outbreak in 1971.

Tuberculosis

In 2016, Tuberculosis was the fourth-leading cause of death in Kenya, and the reported cases of TB contamination have increased sixfold in the last 15 years.  The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated these rates, as the percentage of Kenyans who contracted Tuberculosis increased from 49% in 2019 to 61% in 2020. While the spike in Tuberculosis rates has since decreased as the turbulence of the pandemic has decreased, the 2020 Tuberculosis outbreak represents the severe fragility of Kenyan’s health care sector, as statistics have repeatedly shown that the slightest economic, political, health care, or societal issue can seriously exacerbate an already extremely vulnerable healthcare system.

The Future

Though many issues continue to fray the fabric of the health care sector in Kenya, there is hope for the welfare of Kenyan citizens. In 2024, President William Ruto implemented the Social Health Insurance Fund, mandating health care coverage for citizens nationwide.

NGOs like UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) continue to implement immunization programs to reduce diseases impacting Kenya.  Though much work is still necessary when it comes to health care reform in Kenya, the shift in political attention towards healthcare reform, coupled with the persistence of NGO efforts to supply Kenya with the proper resources to combat disease outbreaks, establish that hope for the improvement of Kenya’s fractured healthcare system remains steadfast.

– Ava Lachini

Ava is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Combating Mold and Poor Air in Informal Settlements

Invisible Threat: Combating Mold and Poor Air in Informal Settlements to Boost HealthInformal settlements, often characterized by dense populations, inadequate infrastructure and precarious living conditions, house millions of people worldwide. While visible challenges like the lack of sanitation and access to clean water are widely recognized, a serious and often overlooked threat exists within the very structures these communities rely on: mold and poor air quality. This ongoing issue significantly affects public health, contributing to chronic illnesses and undermining the overall well-being of residents.

The built environment in informal settlements worsens the problem. Residents often construct dwellings from salvaged or low-cost materials that provide minimal insulation and poor ventilation.

Overcrowding is common, further limiting air circulation and increasing humidity. Additionally, many residents rely on open fires or rudimentary stoves for cooking and heating and this releases harmful pollutants into the already confined spaces. The combination of moisture, poor ventilation and indoor pollution creates ideal conditions for mold growth and contributes to dangerously poor air quality in informal settlements.

Health Impacts of Mold and Poor Air

Exposure to mold and poor air in informal settlements has far-reaching health consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, the elderly and individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions.

  • Respiratory Illnesses. Mold spores, when inhaled, can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks and other respiratory problems. Chronic exposure to indoor air pollutants, including particulate matter and volatile organic compounds from cooking fires, significantly increases the risk of acute respiratory infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and even lung cancer. Children, whose respiratory systems are still developing, are particularly susceptible to these adverse effects.
  • Allergic Reactions and Skin Conditions. Beyond respiratory issues, mold can cause a range of allergic reactions, including skin rashes, itchy eyes and nasal congestion. The damp and unhygienic conditions often associated with informal settlements can also exacerbate existing skin conditions and contribute to new ones.
  • Cognitive and Developmental Impacts. Studies have begun to link exposure to poor indoor air quality, particularly in early childhood, with negative impacts on cognitive development and academic performance. This creates an unfortunate cycle where environmental factors undermine educational opportunities, perpetuating poverty.
  • Mental Health. The constant presence of dampness, mold and poor air in informal settlements can also contribute to stress, anxiety and depression among residents. The feeling of living in an unhealthy and unsafe environment can take a significant toll on mental well-being.

Potential Solutions and Ongoing Efforts

Addressing mold and poor air quality in informal settlements requires a multi-faceted approach that considers the unique challenges of these communities.

  • Improving Housing Design and Materials. Simple design modifications, such as strategically placed windows and vents, can significantly improve airflow and reduce humidity. Educating residents on preventing water intrusion and managing leaks could also play a crucial role. Implementing affordable and moisture-resistant building materials can also help. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity often focus on improving housing conditions, including better ventilation and moisture control. Exploring the use of locally sourced, sustainable materials that offer better insulation and breathability can potentially provide long-term solutions.
  • Enhancing Indoor Air Quality Practices. Promoting access to and adoption of cleaner cooking technologies, such as improved cookstoves or alternative fuels, can significantly reduce indoor air pollution. The Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves promotes the use of these solutions. Educating residents on simple practices like opening windows when cooking, drying clothes outdoors and maintaining regular cleaning can make a significant difference. Proper waste disposal reduces the presence of damp organic matter that can contribute to mold growth.
  • Community Engagement and Education. Informing residents about the health risks associated with mold and poor air and empowering them with practical solutions is paramount. Supporting local initiatives that focus on improving housing conditions and environmental health can lead to sustainable change. Organizations like Slum Dwellers International (SDI) often work with communities to identify and address their housing and infrastructure needs. Establishing community-based health monitoring programs can help track the prevalence of respiratory illnesses and other health issues linked to indoor air quality, allowing for targeted interventions.
  • Policy and Urban Planning Interventions. Granting secure land tenure to residents of informal settlements can incentivize them to invest in improving their homes and living conditions, knowing they won’t be evicted. Investing in basic infrastructure like drainage systems, piped water and electricity can reduce dampness and the reliance on polluting energy sources.
  • Integrated Urban Planning. Incorporating health considerations into urban planning for informal settlements, with a focus on ventilation, open spaces and access to services, is crucial for long-term public health. UN-Habitat supports inclusive and sustainable urbanization.

A Healthier Future for Informal Settlements

Addressing mold and poor air in informal settlements appears to go beyond improving housing; it also involves safeguarding public health, strengthening resilience and reducing poverty linked to environmental conditions. Implementing strategies that combine improved housing, cleaner practices, community engagement and supportive policies can help mitigate these risks and improve outcomes for affected communities.

– Anoushka Rai

Anoushka is based in Frisco, TX, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Trachoma in Burundi: How Burundi Beat Trachoma

Trachoma in BurundiAfter a long history of trials and tribulations, the WHO has declared Burundi free of trachoma as a public health risk. This marks a major milestone in the country’s health, as only seven others in its region have achieved such a feat. The World Health Organization (WHO) celebrates this milestone not just as Burundi eliminated trachoma, but as the first neglected tropical disease the country has successfully eradicated.

The Impact of Trachoma

Trachoma is a bacterial eye disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It remains a public health problem in 32 countries, primarily in impoverished regions with weak or nonexistent water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure. The disease spreads through direct contact with the eye and nasal discharge from infected individuals, especially children, or indirectly through flies that have come into contact with these secretions.

In severe cases, blindness from trachoma is irreversible, making early intervention critical. Globally, trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness, with millions of people at risk, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The disease disproportionately affects women and children, who are often the primary caregivers and more likely to be in close contact with infected individuals.

In Burundi, poor access to clean water and proper sanitation, especially latrines, has historically contributed to the spread of disease. Rural areas often rely on shared or open defecation sites, which attract flies and increase exposure risk. Limited public awareness and inadequate hygiene education further exacerbated the situation, allowing trachoma to persist unchecked for years.

Progress Over Time

According to baseline surveys conducted in 2007-2010, more than 5% of children aged 1-9 had trachoma, indicating that it was endemic in multiple parts of the country. WHO intervened with its SAFE strategy and provided aid across 12 districts. The government of Burundi also cooperated by following WHO guidelines and mapping the disease. Although WHO aimed to eliminate trachoma by 2020, Burundi missed this target due to delays in implementing the strategy across several regions.

From 2018 to 2021, the National Institute of Health (NIH) conducted a public health survey to record the baseline impact of trachoma on Burundi. The results showed that the prevalence of trachoma in Burundi exceeded the ideal threshold and that only around 8% of households had access to sanitary latrines. In 2023, however, things had changed. The WHO reported that, among several other countries, Burundi had met the threshold for eliminating trachoma.

It accomplished this by successfully implementing the SAFE strategy across the country and increasing sanitation (though it is still relatively poor). After two years of consistently meeting the threshold, the WHO declared Burundi free of trachoma as a public health risk.

Final Remarks

Burundi’s trachoma elimination reflects years of persistent effort, collaboration and community health interventions. While challenges remain in sanitation, this success proves the country can overcome major public health threats with sustained action.

– Cayle Harrison

Cayle is based in Columbia, SC, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr