Population Case Studies Flashcards
What is maleria?
Malaria is a parasitic disease transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, and less commonly via blood transfusions or contaminated needles.
Where does maleria appear?
Nearly half the worlds popualtion is at risk of it with an estimated 241 million people contracting maleria in 85 countries in 2020.
It predominantly affects sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Central and South America, and Southeast Asia, with transmission being less intense in cooler, seasonal regions.
Infants and children under 5, pregnant women and patients with HIV are most suscptible to dying from sever malaria
What are the environmental factors effecting maleria
- Optimal temperatures (20-30°C) for mosquito activity and parasite development.
- High humidity to prevent mosquito dehydration.
- Stagnant water for mosquito breeding.
What is the impact of maleria?
Maleria may cause anemia and jaundice due to loss of RBC’s, if not treated promptly, the infection can become severe and may cause kidney faliure, seizures and death.
It can cause big costs to both governments for maintainance and supply as well as individuals as purchasing and travel.
Talk about maleria in uganda
Uganda is heavily impacted, with malaria once epidemic in over 95% of the country. It accounts for 20% of hospital admissions and deaths in children under five, creating significant healthcare costs.
Talk about management and mitigation of maleria
Insecticide-Treated Bed Nets (ITNs): Reduce nighttime mosquito bites.
Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS): Diminishes mosquito populations.
Vaccines: Introduction of malaria vaccines like RTS,S/AS01.
Medications: Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for treatment.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition causing airway inflammation or narrowing, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. It affects over 260 million people worldwide, with higher prevalence in developed nations like the UK.
What are some triggers of asthma?
- Allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, pet dander).
- Air pollution, tobacco smoke, physical exercise, and respiratory infections.
What are the impacts of asthma?
- Limited physical activity and disrupted sleep.
- High medication costs and missed school or workdays.
Talk about fast food and asthma
- High fast-food consumption increases severe asthma risk, particularly in children.
- Saturated fats and reduced antioxidants from fast-food diets exacerbate airway inflammation.