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Methods to Investigate the Regulatory Role of Small RNAs and Ribosomal Occupancy of Plasmodium falciparum
Published on: December 4, 2015
Women and malaria--special risks and appropriate control strategy
1Centre for Research in Medical Entomology, Chinna Chokkikulam, Madurai, India.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Pregnant women, especially during their first pregnancy in high-transmission areas, face significant falciparum malaria risks. Current control strategies like chemoprophylaxis and early treatment face challenges in distribution and access for vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Infectious Diseases
- Global Health
Background:
- Non-immune pregnant women are uniquely vulnerable to Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
- Risk is highest in areas with high, continuous transmission and during the first pregnancy.
- Unstable malaria transmission prevents immunity development, increasing susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review factors contributing to pregnant women's vulnerability to falciparum malaria.
- To examine challenges in protecting pregnant women within current malaria control strategies.
- To identify gaps in knowledge and implementation of malaria control for pregnant women.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of factors affecting pregnant women's malaria risk.
- Analysis of current malaria control strategies (chemoprophylaxis, diagnosis, treatment).
- Examination of implementation challenges in diverse healthcare settings.
Main Results:
- Chemoprophylaxis is recommended but faces drug resistance (chloroquine) and distribution issues.
- In areas with developed healthcare, early diagnosis and treatment are emphasized, but access may be unequal.
- Passive surveillance may miss women due to distance to clinics and domestic responsibilities.
Conclusions:
- Malaria control for pregnant women requires tailored strategies addressing access and adherence.
- Strengthening village-level health services is crucial for effective surveillance and treatment.
- Further research is needed to address implementation lacunae and improve protection for pregnant women.
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