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Current approaches to malaria chemotherapy and prophylaxis
1Malaria Action Programme, WHO, 1211 Geneva-27, Switzerland.
Parasitology Today (Personal Ed.)
|September 1, 1986
Summary
Malaria remains a significant global health threat, with over 100 million cases annually and increasing drug and insecticide resistance hindering control efforts worldwide.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Parasitology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Malaria is a widespread parasitic disease affecting over 100 countries.
- Despite eradication efforts, malaria incidence shows little improvement globally over the last 15 years.
- Drug and insecticide resistance are significant challenges to malaria control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand the current World Health Organization (WHO) philosophy on malaria chemotherapy and prophylaxis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of reported malaria cases to the WHO.
- Estimates of malaria incidence based on endemicity.
- Review of drug and insecticide resistance data.
Main Results:
- An estimated 100 million malaria cases occur annually, with underreporting from many regions.
- Chloroquine-resistant *falciparum* malaria is prevalent in over 40 countries.
- Vector control is compromised by insecticide resistance, and combination drug therapies show concerning side-effects and multidrug resistance.
Conclusions:
- The global malaria situation remains critical due to widespread resistance and underreporting.
- Current treatment strategies face significant challenges requiring updated WHO approaches.
- Further research and updated WHO guidelines are crucial for effective malaria chemotherapy and prophylaxis.