Related Experiment Videos
The cost of not treating bednets
Helen L Guyatt1, Robert W Snow
1Kenya Medical Research Institute/Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, PO Box 43640, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya. Hguyatt@wtnairobi.mimcom.net
Trends in Parasitology
|February 19, 2002
Summary
Untreated bednets offer a physical barrier against malaria-carrying insects. This study analyzes their cost-effectiveness compared to insecticide-treated nets, considering operational challenges.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Public Health
- Malariology
Background:
- Bednets serve as a physical barrier against biting insects.
- Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are widely studied for malaria prevention.
- Re-treatment challenges of ITNs hinder widespread implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present evidence for the protective effect of untreated nets against malaria.
- To analyze the cost-effectiveness of untreated nets versus treated nets.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological evidence on untreated nets.
- Cost-effectiveness analysis comparing untreated and treated nets.
Main Results:
- Untreated nets provide a protective effect against malaria.
- The required efficacy of untreated nets to rival treated nets in cost-effectiveness is determined.
Conclusions:
- Untreated nets are a viable malaria control tool.
- Cost-effectiveness of untreated nets depends on their protective efficacy and ITN operational challenges.