Archive for category: Global Health

Information and stories about global health.

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Neglected Tropical Diseases: Malaria in Cameroon

cameroon malariaAs the 53rd largest country in the world, Cameroon’s 183,000 miles of land mass supports a wide range of landscapes and microclimates. While some regions are extremely hot and dry, others are moist and humid due in part to multiple forests populating the areas. In fact, Cameroon’s Cross-Sanaga Bioko Coastal forests are considered one of the wettest regions on earth. This is due to the forest receiving between 20-30 feet of rainfall annually. While these microclimates support beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems, they also provide habitats for neglected tropical diseases such as malaria. With the country’s population of 29 million all being at risk for contracting this disease, Cameroon’s war against malaria will be extremely critical.

Malaria: A Neglected Tropical Disease in Cameroon

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) such as malaria are just that. Infectious diseases that occur primarily in tropical regions of the world. They are deemed neglected because there is minimal attention to addressing these diseases at both, national and global levels. To make matters worse, NTDs flourish in areas of poverty and where access to health care, sanitation and clean water is lacking.

Cameroon has an abundance of water around it. However, the country has minimal infrastructure in place to effectively convert this water into fresh drinking water. In fact, over half of the population living in rural areas of Cameroon, do not have access to clean drinking water.

Cameroon’s health care system has been severely hampered due to the ongoing internal conflicts. Close to 20% of the medical facilities are no longer operational. And those that are open, are struggling.  Besides the destruction of facilities, there is also a lack of health care workers to assist in Cameroon’s war against malaria.

Add to these issues the plethora of mosquito species present in the country, it is no surprise that malaria is the most prevalent NTD impacting Cameroon. Globally, Cameroon falls within the top 15 countries with a high malaria disease burden. Nationally, more than 6 million cases of malaria occur yearly.

The country reports an annual death rate from malaria to be under 5,000 with a high majority being young children. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) suspects that the number could be well over twice that figure. The data discrepancy is due in part to poor reporting in rural areas.

Fighting Malaria in Cameroon

Although the country still reflects high disease rates, Cameroon’s war against malaria is being fought on multiple fronts. The “No one shall die from malaria” pledge signed by the country’s Ministry of Health shows Cameroon’s determination to fight malaria. The pledge falls in line with WHO’s Global Technical Strategy and Targets for Malaria 2016-2030 guidelines.

Agencies such as the World Bank, Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOP) support Cameroon’s efforts to provide access to clean drinking water to all people.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the International Medical Corps are providing critical health service resources necessary to prevent and treat NTDs such as malaria.

WHO is clarifying prophylaxis treatment options for pregnant women. Cameroon is also implementing a malaria vaccination program for children with provisions from WHO, Gavi-the Vaccine Alliance, and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The WHO is working closely with Cameroon’s Ministry of Health to outline plans on how to provide targeted responses in high disease-burden areas.

Data collected from the Vector Control to Fight Malaria Project is helping to recognize and understand mosquito patterns and activities. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring preventive tools such as insecticide-treated nets are still effective. This data also helps provide education to the community.

Summary

Being home to five different neglected tropical diseases, fighting malaria in Cameroon matters greatly for the country and its population, especially for young children and pregnant women.

Vaccinating young children has led to a significant decrease in disease and death rates of young children. WHO recognized Cameroon for being the first country to incorporate malaria vaccination into the general schedule for childhood immunization.

Many pregnant women have received insecticide-treated nets. And there is a stronger effort to support moms in receiving prophylaxis medication, and in assisting them with access to care during pregnancy.

Although the country made improvements to water infrastructures, there remains an inequitable gap between urban and rural populations having access to clean water. With almost one-quarter of the country’s population could be living in extreme poverty by 2026, addressing these concerns remains critical, and will be the best way to win Cameroon’s war against malaria.

– Kelly Chalupnik

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

Photo: Flickr

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Regulation of PFAS in the EU: Tackling Health Risks and Protecting Communities

Regulation of PFAS in the EUPFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are a growing concern in the European Union due to their harmful impact on both human health and the environment. Regulation of PFAS in the EU is accelerating to help control negative health outcomes and prevent further contamination of the environment. This article explores the latest developments in PFAS regulation and litigation and the broader implications for public health and vulnerable communities in the EU.

Background

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is the umbrella name for a group of more than 7 million human-made and naturally occurring chemicals. This group of chemicals is known for its persistence in the environment gaining the nickname of “forever chemicals.” Over the past few years, PFAS have come to the spotlight in European media following extensive class actions against producers in the U.S. since the late 1990s.

It is a subset of several thousand human-made PFAS which are of particular concern in Europe today for their negative impacts on human health. These health impacts include increased incidences of cancer, pregnancy complications and potentially, diseases of organs such as the thyroid and kidneys.

Harmful PFAS (such as PFOS and PFOAS) are a global problem, accumulating in environments and living beings. The Stockholm Convention sought to regulate several types of PFAS, beginning in 2009 and expanding to regulate what is currently a handful of the chemicals worldwide. Globally, 99% of humans (including fetuses) have measurable levels of forever chemicals in their bloodstream.

The European PFAS Problem

Europe has a legacy of several large production sites where forever chemicals were used heavily in industry. There are also large sites where PFAS presence in firefighting foam has caused significant contamination of groundwater and surrounding soil. In a Europe-wide investigation from French news platform Le Monde and The Forever Pollution Project, PFAS contamination was detected at 23,000 sites. A further 21,500 sites had presumed contamination which had not yet been tested for, and over 2,300 sites contained concentrations of specific PFAS at which there was hazard to human health.

Little EU-specific work has investigated the impacts of harmful forever chemicals on specific groups. According to the research conducted by the author of this article, many (though not all) European industrial sites which have historic, or present PFAS production activities are situated near lower-income communities. It is a concern that people living in these areas may be disproportionately affected by the chemicals compared to those living in higher socio-economic conditions.

Furthermore, negative health outcomes from harmful PFAS exposure have been shown to accumulate faster in children. This includes impacts on the immune system and a child’s lowered ability to fight childhood infections. Lower birth weights for babies born from women with high levels of harmful PFAS exposure can also result in secondary complications of developmental problems and poorer health in later life. This outcome was comparable to associations drawn between premature births to mothers with high exposure to tobacco.

Regulating PFAS in the EU

Regulation of PFAS in the EU enjoys a relatively transparent process which began with the Stockholm Convention. It gained real traction following the 2023 submission of a “REACH” restriction proposal on forever chemicals by Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

REACH is an EU regulation aiming to protect human and environmental health from chemical risks while also seeking to uphold a competitive EU chemicals industry. The regulation establishes standards of assessment, registration and compliance evaluation within EU manufacturing and imports.

As of 2025, REACH revisions have accelerated the dates of restrictions of some harmful types of PFAS in certain EU industries and led to faster safety measure implementations. Regulation of PFAS in the EU is also approaching total bans on consumer products such as cosmetics and food packaging, in line with similar developments within the US. Cleantech and health care companies will not be a part of the EU regulatory ban but see stricter regulation instead as the chemicals are still essential in these industries. The hope is for safer use of forever chemicals in present and future production.

Rise of EU PFAS Litigation

As well as an increase in regulation of PFAS in the EU, there has also been a rise in litigation surrounding legacy sites of production and PFAS use. Over the past two decades, $16.7 billion in U.S. legal settlements have been paid out to people alleging harm from PFAS exposure. A recent claim against chemical giant 3M was settled for $10.5 billion.

Both individuals and groups within EU countries are now beginning to seek compensation for health damages and costs of cleaning up PFAS pollutants. In Belgium, company 3M paid out more than €580 million to the Flemish government in 2022 for chemical leaks of forever chemicals and is also compensating neighbouring businesses into 2025 for a new round of claims.

Residents of countries including the Netherlands, Sweden, Italy and France are also suing companies, governments, and water treatment facilities (in the case of Sweden) for discharges of harmful PFAS into drinking water and agricultural land, according to Chemsec.

As legal settlements and regulatory actions increase, it is crucial to ensure that economically disadvantaged groups are not left behind in the process of receiving compensation and assistance. This is especially important as many economically disadvantaged communities are situated near legacy contamination sites and may have experienced negative health outcomes for decades before litigation, according to the research conducted by the author.

Hope for the future of the EU’s PFAS landscape

The rising awareness of forever chemicals and their impacts, the costs of essential cleanup and increasing regulation of PFAS in the EU is a positive process. EU-wide compensation and regulation could take significant time to implement, becoming a high-profile risk on the agenda of many companies facing litigation now and in the future.

Alongside these processes, there is a developing new market for innovation for both removal and disposal of harmful PFAS. Next-generation water filters, specialist treatment systems and new monitoring standards could have positive spillover effects for applications outside the EU. The new EU frameworks being introduced to handle forever chemicals may set a model for similar framework implementation elsewhere. While the EU has a lot of work and clean-up to do surrounding harmful PFAS, the prospects of safer drinking water for residents are positive. Regulation of PFAS in the EU has recognised the right to a safe environment and safe drinking water for its citizens, empowering citizens to demand these rights too.

– Autumn Joseph

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

Photo: Flickr

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Tech Startups Transform Vision and Hearing in Africa

How Tech Startups are Transforming Vision and Hearing in AfricaAfrica faces critical health care gaps, with millions lacking access to vision and hearing services. According to the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), 90% of avoidable blindness occurs in low-income regions like Africa, where health care systems remain underfunded. Similarly, hearing loss impacts more than 2.5 billion people globally, with most in low- and middle-income countries. Startups like Lapaire and HearX are addressing these challenges by introducing affordable, tech-driven solutions. Their efforts demonstrate how innovation can potentially transform accessibility and improve health outcomes across the continent.

Health Care Landscape in Africa

Africa has undergone a rigorous transition and in recent years there have been many positive shifts in related health outcomes. By 2050, 163 million people on the continent will reach the age of 60 and the population is expected to be a staggering 2.8 billion. These successes contribute significantly to the success of the continent as a whole with more individuals reaching working age and more women entering the workforce. 

Visual impairment is a significant issue in Africa. 26.3 million people across the region suffer from some form of visual impairment whether that be: cataracts, uncorrected refractive errors, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, corneal opacities, diabetic retinopathy, trachoma and onchocerciasis and  It is estimated that 15.3% of the world’s blind population reside in Africa. 

With today’s medical knowledge, up to 80% of blindness is preventable and treatable. Cost-effective interventions are available for the major causes of avoidable blindness. However, millions of people in the Region remain at risk of visual loss due to the lack of eye-care services.

Evidence indicates that ‘avoidable blindness’ such as that caused by communicable diseases like trachoma and onchocerciasis (river blindness) is decreasing, whereas noncommunicable age-related eye conditions (e.g. cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy) are increasing. So far, The control of river blindness through the Onchocerciasis Control Programme has resulted in the prevention of 600,000 cases of blindness.

Startups Leading the Way in Vision and Hearing Accessibility

  • Lapaire Eyecare: Revolutionizing Affordable Vision Solutions. Swiss lawyer Jérôme Lapaire, while living in Nairobi, Kenya, observed that many working-class individuals could not afford corrective eyewear. This realization led to the founding of Lapaire Eyecare, which started with a simple model: offering $25 glasses and free eye exams. However, challenges such as currency depreciation, high marketing costs and consumer perceptions of low-cost products hindered early progress. Pivoting to West Africa, Lapaire established a strong base in Abidjan, Ivory Coast and expanded to 70 outlets across six countries. With a $3 million funding boost, the company now serves uninsured customers, providing affordable glasses that can significantly improve quality of life. “If people possibly can, they will pay $35 to improve their vision, with sometimes life-changing impact,” Lapaire remarked.
  • HearX: Democratizing Hearing Solutions with AI and Innovation. HearX, founded by four South Africans, identified a gap in accessible hearing care. CEO Nic Klopper aimed to democratize hearing solutions by replacing costly audiometers with smartphone-based tools, leveraging AI technology from Pretoria University. Its breakthrough came with the development of over-the-counter hearing aids, facilitated by a 2022 United States (U.S.) legislative change that allowed patients to bypass specialists. These devices, priced at $999 per pair, are far more affordable than traditional hearing aids and connect to a smartphone app for user adjustments and remote consultations. In 2023, HearX achieved $58 million in sales and raised $60 million in funding. However, regulatory hurdles in South Africa, driven by lobbying from hearing specialists, have slowed domestic adoption. HearX continues to pilot more affordable devices and installment payment options, aiming to reach underserved markets across Africa and beyond.

The Future of Accessible Vision and Hearing in Africa

The journey toward accessible health care for vision and hearing in Africa requires immediate, innovative and collaborative solutions. Underdeveloped health care systems demand a mix of public and private sector involvement. With the rise of startups like Lapaire and HearX, as well as conferences like Inclusive Africa, progress continues while promoting digital accessibility. Addressing the core issues of human resources, budget allocation and management could further advance these ongoing efforts. Through these combined ventures, Africa moves closer to a future where vision and hearing accessibility become realities for all.

– Ayat Aslam

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

Photo: Flickr

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Cancer in West Africa: A Growing Health Challenge

Cancer in West Africa: A Growing Health Challenge Cancer remains a significant health challenge in West Africa, with its impact steadily increasing in recent years. In 2022, the Global Cancer Observatory recorded 263,255 new cancer cases in the region. Late diagnoses and limited access to treatment facilities have pushed mortality rates above 60%, highlighting urgent public health and socio-economic disparities that demand attention.

Common Types of Cancer in the Region

Breast, cervical, liver and prostate cancers are the most prevalent types in West Africa. Among women, breast and cervical cancer dominate diagnoses, while prostate and liver cancer are the leading causes among men. Cervical cancer, largely preventable through HPV vaccination and regular screening, remains a major cause of death due to the absence of widespread immunization programs and early detection services. Similarly, liver cancer is often linked to exposure to aflatoxins—poisonous substances found in mold-contaminated food—compounding health risks in the region.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Geographic and environmental factors also play a significant role in cancer prevalence. Increased exposure to environmental pollutants from urbanization and industrialization has raised cancer risks. Lifestyle changes, including dietary shifts, reduced physical activity and higher rates of tobacco and alcohol consumption, have further exacerbated the burden of noncommunicable diseases in West Africa.

Health Care Gaps and Access Issues

Limited health care infrastructure presents one of the most significant barriers to addressing cancer in West Africa. A shortage of oncologists, inadequate diagnostic equipment and poorly resourced health care systems mean that many patients receive diagnoses in advanced stages of the disease. Countries such as Sierra Leone and Guinea have minimal specialized medical personnel, leaving large portions of their populations without adequate care. This stark disparity in access to treatment makes combating cancer in the region considerably more challenging.

Efforts to Combat Cancer

Despite these ongoing challenges, efforts to tackle cancer in West Africa have grown over the past decade. Public health campaigns, led by organizations like the West African Health Organization (WAHO) and supported by global entities such as the World Health Organization (WHO), have focused on:

Notable success stories include Ghana’s cervical cancer screening expansion and the introduction of HPV vaccines in schools, as well as Nigeria’s national cancer control plans, which aim to improve early detection rates.

Looking Ahead

Beyond its medical implications, cancer poses a developmental challenge, straining families, communities and economies in a region already facing significant vulnerabilities. Addressing the rising cancer burden in West Africa requires comprehensive strategies that prioritize preventive care, education and strengthening health care systems. Furthermore, collaborative efforts that focus on expanding vaccination programs, improving access to diagnostic tools and training medical personnel are essential. By investing in sustainable health initiatives, the region can potentially work toward reducing mortality rates and mitigating the socio-economic impact of cancer on communities.

– Joe Lockett

Joe is based in the Wirral, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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UNICEF’s Oxygen Plant-in-a-Box

Oxygen Plant-in-a-BoxPneumonia kills more children than any other infectious disease. Each year, more than 7 million children under 5 require oxygen as a means of treatment for this. In 2020, UNICEF launched its Oxygen Plant-in-a-Box Project. This cost-effective project supplies hospitals with life-saving gas, a means of preventing millions of deaths from pneumonia.

Before 2020 – The Situation

As of 2018, pneumonia was responsible for 16% of child deaths, with the majority amongst children below the age of 2. It killed more children than diarrhea and malaria combined. Almost all cases of pneumonia can be prevented through early diagnosis and access to antibiotics and oxygen treatment. The problem lay and continues to lie with access to this healthcare.

Pneumonia does not have a single cause, it is an acute respiratory infection of the lungs, developing from either viruses or bacteria in the air. Once infected lungs become inflamed which causes difficulty breathing. The most common symptoms are coughing, fever and difficulty breathing.

The Role of Oxygen

When pneumonia develops, inflammation of the lungs stops enough oxygen from entering the bloodstream and circulating through the body. Access to oxygen in these cases becomes lifesaving. However, it has previously been unavailable to those in countries without strong health systems, only available in higher-level facilities and hospitals.

As the leading cause of preventable child deaths, pneumonia is more deadly to children in 124 low to middle-income countries who have limited or no access to health care. It leaves around 4.2 million children under 5 with dangerously low oxygen levels. This group is more vulnerable due to exposure to polluted air and higher rates of malnutrition and diarrhea, which leaves immune systems weaker.

UNICEF’s Oxygen Plant-in-a-Box Project.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, UNICEF and partners have worked to improve basic oxygen access, coming up with their innovative Oxygen Plant-in-a-Box Project. The Oxygen-Plant in a box produces enough oxygen to treat up to 100 children with severe pneumonia. The package contains everything necessary to install and operate a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) oxygen plant which is fully functional within days of being implemented at a health facility.

By December 2021, over 16 countries had ordered this product and were on the path to developing stronger health care systems. That month patients at the Soroti Regional Referral Hospital in Uganda were the first to receive life-saving oxygen from this project.

More about the Box

The package includes everything to produce large volumes of medical-grade oxygen for patients, with each plant holding the capacity to produce up to 720,000 litres of oxygen each day. These packages aim to support medium to large health facilities.

Kristoffer Gandrup-Marino, Chief of Product Innovation at UNICEF Supply Division, stated these plants could take up to six months to design and order, so they developed the pre-designed plants making the product cheaper and faster to manufacture and arrive, saving lives in the process.

Real Life Implementation

In Uganda, 6-month-old Constance suffered from a cough, fever and difficulty breathing. She went to her local hospital where they diagnosed her with pneumonia. Here, she was immediately provided with antibiotics and oxygen. UNICEF reports.

A few months prior this would not have been the case. Due to a deteriorating infrastructure, the Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital held very limited access to oxygen therefore constricting its ability to treat the increasing numbers of pneumonia cases in children. Now, with the Oxygen Pant-in-a-Box running, Constance is one of hundreds of children supplied with the proper medical care. The new plant covers an area of 2.8 million people, according to UNICEF.

Pneumonia is still the biggest infectious killer of children, with millions of children still contracting the infection. However, local and sustainable solutions will continue to be found to prevent more deaths from pneumonia. The Oxygen Plant-in-a-Box Project contributes to this goal, supplying oxygen to healthcare facilities and treatment to those who need it.

– Amelia Short

Amelia is based in Bradford, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Improving Health Care Accessibility in Developing Countries

Improving Health Care Accessibility in Developing Countries Approximately 1.2 billion people live in acute, multidimensional poverty across 111 developing countries. Many suffer from preventable and curable diseases due to limited access to health care services. According to a Geneva report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), 56% of rural residents do not have access to essential health care services. Currently, 800 million people allocate at least 10% of their household budgets to health expenses for themselves, a sick child or another family member. For nearly 100 million people, these expenses are substantial enough to push them into extreme poverty, forcing them to survive on $1.90 or less per day. Globally, many countries collaborate with the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide essential health services to the most vulnerable and needy populations.

Implementation of Telemedicine in Cambodia

Implementing telemedicine in Cambodia has significantly improved health care accessibility, largely through initiatives like Operation Village Health, part of the broader Village Leap program. This program, established by Japan Relief for Cambodia and American Assistance for Cambodia, aims to rehabilitate the country after the Khmer Rouge reign and the Vietnam War by bringing technology to rural areas. Operation Village Health uses this infrastructure to support local health workers, build capacity and provide medical care to those without expertise. An email-based telemedicine program established in 2001 allows Harvard-affiliated physicians to offer clinical recommendations to Cambodian health workers, enhancing the quality of care in remote areas.

Mobile Clinics in Madagascar

Since June 2022, mobile clinics have been crucial in improving health care accessibility in Madagascar. Funded by the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund, 20 mobile clinics have been reaching remote and hard-to-access areas, providing essential health services to around 1 million people. These clinics have been especially vital in restoring health care services, such as vaccinations, following the destruction caused by cyclones Batsirai and Emnati, which destroyed more than 150 health facilities and left 800,000 people without access to health care. Staffed by trained health professionals who travel by various means, these mobile clinics have provided care and vaccinations and strengthened epidemiological surveillance and the detection of vaccine-preventable diseases in isolated communities.

Training Health Care Workers in Liberia

Training health care workers in Liberia through the Last Mile Health’s From Response to Recovery program has significantly improved health care accessibility. This initiative focused on building resilient health systems by investing in community and frontline health workers. Over three years, the program strengthened the National Community Health Assistant Program, rolled out a digital training platform and developed online educational resources for health system leaders. Additionally, it advocated for integrated community health worker systems, which improved the capacity to deliver essential health services, especially in remote areas. This approach enabled better health care access and quality for the communities in Liberia.

Investing in Health Care Infrastructure in Morocco

With the population steadily increasing in Morocco and a large segment entering an age group that typically requires more medical attention, demand for health care facilities, medical services and pharmaceuticals has surged. The Moroccan government has shown a strong dedication to upgrading health care infrastructure and services through initiatives like the National Health Plan (Plan Santé 2025). This plan offers long-term stability and support for the health care sector, creating a secure environment for investments. Investors can explore opportunities in public-private partnerships (PPPs) and other investment options in health care. This collaborative approach has led to the development of a robust health care system, ensuring better access to essential medical services for the Moroccan people.

Health Information Technologies in Nigeria

Utilizing health information technology, particularly through the adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs), is significantly improving data management and resource distribution in Nigeria, thereby improving health care accessibility in developing countries. By implementing EMRs, Nigeria’s health care system has seen improvements in patient care and overall health care efficiency. EMRs facilitate better data management, enabling health care providers to track patient histories, streamline workflows and reduce errors. Despite challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of training and limited funding, the Nigerian experience emphasizes the importance of government support and investment in technology and training. This approach not only addresses the unique needs and constraints of developing countries but also sets a precedent for other nations looking to improve their health care systems through advanced health information technology.

Looking Ahead

Improving health care accessibility in developing countries requires a multifaceted approach that addresses various barriers to quality care. The innovative strategies discussed, telemedicine in Cambodia, mobile clinics in Madagascar, community health worker training in Liberia, infrastructure investment in Morocco and health information technology in Nigeria, demonstrate the potential for significant improvements in health care delivery. By focusing on these targeted interventions, developing regions can potentially make significant advancements toward fair and effective health care systems. These ongoing efforts not only improve the quality of care but also foster healthier communities, facilitating sustained development and well-being.

– Maria Urioste

Maria is based in Maspeth, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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China’s malaria elimination

China’s malaria eliminationOn June 30, 2021, the World Health Organisation (WHO) certified China as malaria-free. Achieving this amazing status highlights the country’s success and the importance of strategic planning and adaptability in facing challenges. These include drug resistance, changing weather patterns and the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to this success, China could serve as an example for Africa, where malaria remains a significant challenge that claims more than 600,000 lives annually.

The 1-3-7 Strategy: The Key to Success

One of the cornerstone strategies in China’s malaria elimination was the 1-3-7 surveillance method. The efficient system requires reporting any confirmed malaria case within one day, then investigating within three days and responding within seven days. This rapid detection and response model was integral to China’s ability to control and eliminate malaria.

Real-time data-sharing technology is further enhanced using this method, according to The Lancet. The country also provided monetary incentives to health care workers to encourage timely reporting in some regions. The Gates Foundation recognized the 1-3-7 approach as a model for other countries with malaria breakouts.

Additional Steps to China’s Success

On top of the 1-3-7 strategy implemented to tackle China’s malaria elimination, the country also developed innovative genetic-based approaches by studying parasite populations. Scientists noticed that there is an ideal stage to intervene when it comes to intracellular parasites, this is when they decide to either continue multiples or be transmitted through a mosquito. This is because only a few parasites turn into gametocytes which is required for the transmission. China used strategies like insecticide spraying and mosquito breeding ground elimination.

Furthermore, China also turned its attention to the surveillance of drug resistance. A similar approach could help reduce malaria transmission rates in Africa. WHO recommends frequent efficacy studies to monitor the effectiveness of antimalarial drugs, according to the International Journal of Maternal and Child Health and AIDS (IJMA). China also partnered with international research institutes such as Harvard University where it used advanced genomic tools to study and predict malaria parasite movements.

China’s Leadership

China’s success in eliminating malaria shows the need for strong government leadership and cross-sectoral collaboration. Starting in the 1940s, when China was reporting 30 million cases of Malaria annually, the country gradually reduced its malaria through a series of national plans and partnerships with other nations. In 2010, it launched the National Action Plan for Malaria Elimination. This, combined WHO guidelines with China’s local strategies to achieve elimination.

During this time, China’s government committed over ￥1.38 billion towards malaria elimination efforts, according to BMJ Global Health. This robust financial backing, combined with scientific research, allowed China to upscale its interventions. The discovery of artemisinin is one of the most notable contributions from Chinese research, according to The Gates Foundation. These advances played a key role in China’s success and remain crucial tools in global malaria control efforts.

Future Prospects: China’s Lessons for Africa

This amazing achievement could help African nations achieve malaria-free status. By creating multi-sector collaborations and adapting the 1-3-7 strategy they can unite in the fight against malaria. Furthermore, adapting China’s genetics-based approach could strengthen these efforts.

Additionally, community engagement could be key to success. Educating communities about malaria prevention and involving local leaders in control measures could help ensure these efforts. With the right combination of financial investment and government action, African nations can make significant progress towards reducing malaria. China’s malaria-free certification is not just a victory for China but also a beacon of hope for the global fight against malaria.

– Ellisha Hicken

Ellisha is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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DRC Begins Mpox Vaccination Program

Mpox Vaccination ProgramIn October 2024, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) began its official vaccination scheme against Mpox, following a nationwide outbreak. First detected in the country more than 50 years ago, Mpox is a viral infection that can cause fatal illness. The emergence of a new strain in 2023 led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare the recent outbreak a “global health emergency” in August 2024. Two months later, following 30,000 recorded cases and more than 900 deaths as of October 2024, the DRC’s Ministry of Public Health is beginning the rollout of hundreds of thousands of vaccines as the start of its official Mpox vaccination program.

Provisions from the EU

To curb the spread of the virus, the DRC relies on the European Union (EU), donation of 265,000 MBA-BN vaccines, with the help of the U.S. Government, Gavi and Africa CDC. These vaccines require two shots administered one month apart and are available only to adults, according to UNICEF.

With a population of more than 100 million, this means there is a limited amount of doses, so officials have had to target the campaign to those most vulnerable to Mpox. So far, the campaign has focused on the country’s North Kivu and Equateur provinces, the two regions that have recorded the highest number of cases. Within these areas, the Ministry of Health will provide the doses to the most at-risk groups, such as those with existing health problems. UNICEF has coordinated the transport and delivery of the vaccines, as well as the storage and shipment across the DRC.

Further Expected Doses

Although officials in the DRC are currently working with a limited supply of vaccines, the nation has also signed an agreement with the government of Japan, which promises the supply of LC-16 vaccines. LC-16 only requires one shot for immunisation and is currently the only one that has approval for children. One of the most disproportionately impacted, children under 15 are some of the most vulnerable to the virus, accounting for 60% of all recorded cases and 80% of deaths in the DRC, according to UNICEF.

Logistical Difficulties

Alongside limited availability, officials have also faced difficulties when planning the implementation of the Mpox vaccination program itself. Vaccines must be kept as low as -20 degrees Celsius, and, once defrosted, need to be used within 40 days to be effective. Officials are therefore working with a limited time frame in which they can transport and administer doses from the central storage facility in Kinshasa. This poses particular difficulty for the nation’s more rural areas which take longer to reach, an issue that has only been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the DRC between the government and rebel groups. This has made access to rebel-controlled regions much more limited and therefore made the transportation of medical resources such as vaccines to these areas much more difficult.

Government efforts, educational campaigns and attempts to raise awareness about the virus, and vaccines are just some of the ways the DRC is currently working to combat the spread of Mpox. Its collaboration with international organizations has proved key to the start of the Mpox vaccination program, and further provisions from nations such as Japan will hopefully allow for the continued suppression of the virus.

– Izzy Tompkins

Izzy is based in Leeds, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Causes of Mental Health in Estonia

Mental Health in EstoniaThe people of Estonia have been grappling with mental illness for years. With a population of 1.3 million, approximately 20% are affected by anxiety and depressive disorders. Several factors contribute to the high rate of mental illness in the country, including gender, economic status and the impact of COVID-19. However, a significant factor is the existing policies regarding mental health.

Gender Differences

Worldwide, women are at a higher risk for certain mental illnesses than men. Women are more likely to have mental distress like anxiety, depression, eating disorders and more. At the same time, men are more likely to have Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism.

A 2021 post-COVID-19 survey in Estonia revealed that 31% of women in the study had developed depression, 25% had anxiety and 44% experienced sleep disorders. While women showed higher rates of certain mental disorders, men had a significantly higher rate of alcohol addiction at 34%, compared to 17% among women.

The Effects of Socioeconomic Status

The economic status of certain demographic groups in Estonia also correlates with higher levels of mental distress. According to the National Library of Medicine, “lower personal income was associated with higher rates of all mental health complaints (stress, depressiveness, overtiredness and suicidal thoughts) among employed adults in Estonia.” Economic status is not the only socioeconomic factor contributing to the rise in mental distress in Estonia.

Education has also been identified as a high-risk factor for mental health disorders. “The mental health of Estonian students has never been as critical as today.” Compared to other European countries, Estonia’s student population has twice as many reported mental health 0issues. In 2021, 5% of students across Europe were admitted to university with mental health problems, while Estonia’s rate was 9%.

COVID-19

COVID-19 significantly contributed to a global increase in mental distress and Estonia is no exception. The country continues to feel the effects of the mental strain left by the pandemic. According to the Health Systems and Policy Monitor, a 2022 study revealed that one in four adults in Estonia is at risk of developing depression in the aftermath of COVID-19.

Furthermore, a survey conducted by the National Library of Medicine found that elite athletes in Estonia experienced high levels of mental distress when COVID-19 hit. Female athletes showed higher distress levels than their male counterparts. With competitions canceled, training facilities closed and face-to-face coaching suspended, stress levels among athletes soared.

Policies

Estonia’s mental health services have improved in recent years due to continuous policy changes. Initially, the country had only drafts of policy documents for mental health services. However, as mental distress increased among its citizens, Estonia updated and strengthened its policies to address the growing need.

The Health Systems and Policy Monitor (HSPM) Network has provided an update on future policy changes aimed at improving mental health in Estonia. Due to the impact of COVID-19 and the rise in mental illness among low-income groups, policymakers have made mental health initiatives a top priority. A new “Mental Health Action Plan” is set to take effect from 2023 to 2026.

The Mental Health Action Plan details anticipated changes in the field of mental health. The plan emphasizes the Ministry of Social Affairs’ (MoSA) role in implementing these changes. It recognizes that addressing issues in mental health will require additional actions beyond what is currently outlined and achievable within the plan’s timeframe.

Conclusion

Mental distress can affect individuals regardless of gender or socioeconomic status, highlighting a widespread issue. However, positive strides have been shown, as evidenced by the significant improvements in Estonia’s mental health services in the past 10-15 years.

– Ashley Diaz

Ashley is based in Homestead, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Monkeypox Outbreak in Africa

monkeypox outbreakCOVID-19 was a difficult time for everyone. Not only did we see extreme drawbacks in the economy, but drawbacks socially and personally as well. The world has worked hard to move on from a time of social isolation, and face masks, but a new problem has begun to arise that threatens the world’s plans for global stability. Monkeypox, now known as Mpox is a rare disease that leads to a rash and flu-like symptoms. There are two strains that affect a multitude of people at different rates and are contracted in various ways. Infected are commonly found in central African countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and Rwanda. These countries are now facing high rates of spreading, stirring tensions and concerns of another global crisis and potential monkeypox outbreak.

Countries at Risk

Mpox is causing major outbreak fears in the DRC, Uganda and Kenya as people are starting to experience an increase in cases. Mpox in the DRC has reached over 15,000 reported cases, as of August 2024, making it the largest concentration of infected on the continent, and surrounding countries are at risk. Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda have now reported their first cases of monkeypox, and have begun taking necessary precautions to isolate the problem before more are infected.

The DRC and other countries are working hard to contain the threat; a mixture of existing economic setbacks and Mpox would be detrimental to the progress and stability Africa has worked hard to achieve. Mpox in the DRC is close to a total outbreak in the eastern provinces of South and North Kivu where millions of displaced people are living in overcrowded conditions, inevitably causing an immediate rise in cases.

Kwazulu Natal reported nine cases of Mpox and two confirmed deaths already in July 2024. Men between the ages of 17 through 43 were among the first groups to contract the disease in July 2024. Exposure can occur through contact with contaminated materials, infected animals or infected people, most notably through sexual contact. South Africa fears of growing community transmission in areas with high concentrations of vulnerable groups.

Monkeypox Outbreak: Solutions

Government organizations like UNICEF, WHO and the African CDC are working in partnerships to provide vaccines, services and information, and health kits to healthcare facilities across Africa. A collaboration with Gavi, the vaccine alliance has led to the approval of several projects aimed at containing and stopping Mpox in the DRC and other African countries.

Beginning in 2026, Gavi will start stockpiling vaccines, but progress will rely on funding, prequalification of a recommended vaccine and the availability of WHO Emergency Use Listing. Gavi will support outbreak response in DRC and surrounding countries in the meantime. The organization will invest in the learning agenda which aims to help inform and improve future vaccination efforts.

In 2022 the CDC Foundation activated the Emergency Response Fund, previously used to bolster support to communities and organizations when Ebola, Zika, and most recently COVID-19 threatened the world. Appealing with government and private entities the CDC aims to raise as much support as possible, the first of many donations coming from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Going through the COVID-19 pandemic, the world gained an experience. Support in awareness and advocacy of the problem that the monkeypox outbreak poses is necessary for low-income countries to receive help. The world has the chance to stop another pandemic from taking shape.

– Immanuel Wiggins

Immanuel is based in Jackson, MS, US and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr