Written By Malaria is a disease that has been affecting humans for thousands of years, but its impact is still felt today in many parts of the world, particularly in developing countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 229 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2019, with 94% of those cases occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. In this article, we will explore the devastating impact of malaria on developing countries and the challenges associated with fighting the disease.
Economic Impact
Malaria can have a significant impact on the economies of developing countries. The disease can lead to lost productivity due to illness and death, as well as increased healthcare costs. In addition, the disease can limit economic development by discouraging investment and tourism in affected areas.
According to a study by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), malaria costs Africa an estimated $12 billion each year in lost productivity alone. This represents a significant drain on the economies of affected countries, particularly those that are already struggling with poverty and lack of resources.
Health Impact
The health impact of malaria is perhaps the most devastating aspect of the disease. Malaria is a leading cause of death in many developing countries, particularly among children under the age of five. In 2019, there were an estimated 409,000 malaria-related deaths worldwide, with 67% of those deaths occurring in children under five.
Malaria can also have long-term health consequences for those who survive the disease. The disease can cause anemia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other health problems. In addition, repeated infections can lead to permanent damage to the brain, kidneys, and other organs.
Challenges in Fighting Malaria
Fighting malaria in developing countries can be a difficult task. Limited resources and infrastructure can make it difficult to implement effective prevention and treatment measures. In addition, the disease can be difficult to diagnose, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare.
One of the biggest challenges in fighting malaria is the development of drug-resistant strains of the parasite. Resistance to antimalarial medications has been reported in many parts of the world, making treatment more difficult and costly. In addition, the development of a malaria vaccine has been challenging, with no highly effective vaccine currently available.
Efforts to Combat Malaria
Despite the challenges associated with fighting malaria, there have been significant efforts to combat the disease in developing countries. The WHO’s Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030 aims to reduce the global burden of malaria by 90% by 2030. The strategy focuses on expanding access to prevention measures such as mosquito nets and increasing access to effective treatment.
