Malaria is one of the leading global health concerns in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Spread via the mosquito, this life-threatening condition is caused by a parasite. It is mostly found in tropical countries.

 

LMICs are disproportionately affected by malaria due to the regional climate. Often found in tropical and subtropical regions, LMICs are located in endemic zones conducive to the survival and reproduction of the Anopheles mosquito – the primary vector for malaria.

 

Other compounding factors include the lack of access to healthcare, poor housing quality, limited awareness about insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), and minimal resources available for malaria treatments.

 

Malaria Death Rate: A Grim Reality

LMIC, malaria death rate, malaria symptoms, malaria treatmentSource : BASA Development Initiatives

 

Malaria is among the deadliest diseases known to humanity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608,000 malaria deaths in 85 countries. Malaria, despite being highly preventable and treatable, accounts for a significant share of preventable deaths, not only in LMICs but globally.

 

Here’s a breakdown of the current problem :

  • Despite the malaria death rate falling since the mid-2000s, it now hovers at 10.5 per 100,000 globally and 63.4 deaths per 100,000 people in Africa as of 2021.
  • The WHO African region accounts for 94% of malaria cases (233 million) and 95% of malaria deaths (580,000).
  • Children under 5 are disproportionately affected, accounting for around 80% of all malaria deaths.
  • Malaria poses a risk to pregnant mothers. The infection increases the risk of lower birthweight by almost 2 times, having a preterm birth by 1.65 times, and having a stillbirth by 1.4 times.

 

Part of the problem is the delayed diagnosis and limited treatment options. Patient delays were one of the biggest factors in diagnostic delay. One analysis found that 61% of participants did not seek diagnosis and malaria treatment on time due to distance from the health facility, lack of knowledge about malaria prevention, no prior experience with malaria, and the use of alcohol.

 

Malaria Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

LMIC, malaria death rate, malaria symptoms, malaria treatmentSource : pngtree

 

Malaria usually begins within 10-15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The initial symptoms of malaria are fever, headache, and chills. Some individuals may have mild malaria symptoms, especially if they’ve been infected before.

 

The infection tends to progress more rapidly in vulnerable groups, such as young children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Look for:

  • High fever, sweating, and chills
  • Headaches and confusion
  • Extreme fatigue and drowsiness (particularly in children)
  • Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Muscle aches
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes 
  • Sore throat, coughing, and difficulty breathing

 

If left untreated, malaria can be fatal. The complications include:

  • Cerebral malaria. The parasite-filled blood cells block blood vessels in the brain, leading to swelling, seizures, and coma.
  • Breathing problems. Fluid accumulates in the lungs.
  • Organ failure. Malaria damages the kidneys, liver, or spleen.
  • Anemia. Malaria depletes the red blood cells, depriving the body of oxygen.
  • Low blood sugar. If severe, malaria drops the blood sugar to life-threatening levels.

 

The earlier treatment is administered the better outcome for patients. Early recognition of symptoms and prompt treatment are crucial in LMICs, where timely intervention can be lifesaving.

 

Efforts in Malaria Prevention and Control

LMIC, malaria death rate, malaria symptoms, malaria treatmentSource : Unsplash

 

Preventing malaria is more cost-effective and lifesaving than treatment. It involves protecting people from mosquito bites. Global efforts to combat malaria include using insecticide-treated nets in sleeping locations, applying mosquito repellents indoors after dusk, installing window screens, and wearing protective clothing.

 

Since 2021, the WHO has recommended the broad use of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine in children at moderate to high risk of malaria transmission. The vaccine is proven to be effective at reducing malaria incidence and the malaria death rate among young children. It’s a landmark step in the fight against malaria.

 

Lastly, increasing the provision of diagnostics and treatment ensures that those who slip through the prevention net still receive lifesaving care. Building more diagnostic centers, educating locals about malaria symptoms, and raising awareness about the risk are all crucial to delivering change.

 

NOUL’s miLab™ MAL for Enhanced Malaria Control

LMIC, malaria death rate, malaria symptoms, malaria treatmentSource : NOUL

 

Determined to make a difference, NOUL, a global leader in diagnostics, developed the miLab™ MAL. This device is an innovative diagnostic tool that can enhance malaria detection efforts in LMICs.

 

The device uses an automated diagnostic system with On-Device AI to provide quick, accurate malaria diagnosis. It performs detailed parasite analysis, offering a more comprehensive approach by incorporating morphology and other advanced diagnostic techniques. With minimal training, a user can identify parasite type, life cycle stage, and even determine precise infection levels. It’s the perfect solution for remote and resource-limited settings.

 

The miLab™ MAL is designed to be more cost-effective than traditional diagnostic procedures, as it reduces the need for extensive training and provides faster results. It doesn’t require advanced training and improves overall workflow, allowing lower labor costs and higher operational efficiency. With more diagnostic capacity and faster diagnosis times, this device could significantly reduce malaria death rates in LMICs worldwide.

 

Submit your inquiry today to learn more about this groundbreaking technology.