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Global distribution maps of the leishmaniases
David M Pigott1, Samir Bhatt1, Nick Golding1
1Spatial Ecology and Epidemiology Group, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
Elife
|June 29, 2014
Summary
Leishmaniases, a global vector-borne disease, now has high-resolution risk maps. This evidence-based approach improves understanding of leishmaniasis distribution for better disease control and surveillance efforts.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Tropical Medicine
- Geographic Information Systems
Background:
- Leishmaniases are significant global public health problems, transmitted by vectors.
- Current understanding of leishmaniasis distribution is limited by poor spatial resolution and reliance on expert opinion.
- Accurate mapping is crucial for effective disease control and burden estimation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create high-resolution, evidence-based global environmental risk maps for leishmaniases.
- To improve the spatial resolution of leishmaniasis distribution data.
- To support targeted surveillance and control strategies for leishmaniases.
Main Methods:
- Compiled a comprehensive database of cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis occurrence records from diverse sources.
- Integrated environmental covariates relevant to disease vectors and hosts.
- Utilized a boosted regression tree modelling framework to generate risk maps.
Main Results:
- Generated high-resolution, evidence-based global environmental risk maps for leishmaniases.
- The maps provide a more detailed spatial understanding of disease distribution compared to previous estimates.
- Identified areas with varying levels of leishmaniasis risk globally.
Conclusions:
- The developed risk maps offer a valuable tool for public health initiatives.
- These maps can guide future surveillance, disease control efforts, and burden estimation.
- Enhanced spatial data on leishmaniasis distribution are essential for combating the disease effectively.
