Sep 19, 2006

A Breakthrough for Fighting Malaria—But Dangers Too

by Laura Starita

The WHO is shortly expected to approve the use of DDT – sprayed indoors in homes – as a part of a comprehensive approach toward preventing malaria infection in Africa, reports the Associated Press.  Overturning the decades old complete ban on the use of DDT is a major breakthrough for fighting malaria, a disease that kills or cripples millions worldwide each year.

DDT is a potent insecticide that both kills mosquitoes and repels those in the vicinity. It was one of the key tools that allowed the developed world to eliminate malaria. However, as we all know, DDT is also the poster child for environmental pollution and has been banned since the 1970’s.

The WHO’s decision should be applauded - DDT is, bar none, the most effective way of killing and repeling malarial mosquitos.  As part of the arsenal of malaria prevention it is a strong weapon, but this does not mean the world can become complacent. DDT is damaging to the environment. While the advocates for renewed DDT use point out that much of the science behind the initial ban is suspect, there are real dangers. A recent University of California, Berkeley study has linked DDT with development delays in children (see below), in addition to low birth weight and premature delivery.

And while DDT is far more long-lasting in its preventative capabilities than any alternative, it still only works for one year. The need for initial application and follow-up maintenance creates the same logistics challenges aid agencies have faced with bed-net distribution. Lastly, it does nothing to protect people when they are out of doors. The WHO has said use of DDT would play only a part in the broader effort to eradicate the disease. Medicines, vaccines, bed nets, medical care delivered to rural regions, insecticides: all of these things are needed if we are to combat malaria.

Associated Press: W.H.O. Rules May Increase DDT Use for Malaria

BBC story on University of California study:
DDT ‘link’ to slow child progress