Treating disease is important – but addressing the underlying causes is the ultimate solution
In Africa more than 500 million people are infected with one or more of 13 neglected tropical diseases – NTDs. These diseases are the most common afflictions of the world’s poorest people. They have names most people in the developed world have never heard – ascariasis, trichariasis, schistosomiasis, lymphatic filiariasis, trachoma etc. They have a terrible impact on overall African health – retard child growth and development – damage pregnant women – and often cause long-term debilitating illnesses. They disfigure, disable and are often deadly. Many of them are transmitted through contaminated soil and/or water.
A number of large pharmaceutical companies have made significant donations of new generation drugs to treat some of these diseases – whilst other organizations and drug companies continue to work on the development of vaccines for others. These donations and efforts are additional weapons in the battle against debilitating diseases.
There is no doubt that drugs are an important weapon in the treatment of these diseases – however the address of the underlying causes through the provision of clean water, sanitation and education should not be forgotten in the excitement of at last having available low cost drug treatments. Drugs usually work best when used in conjunction with other interventions.
Combining the provision of drugs with clean water, sanitation and education is the most effective way of addressing disease in Africa – but we must not forget the provision of clean water will save more lives than any other intervention.
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The African Water Bank has one primary task – the provision of clean water points to those people and communities who do not have access to a supply of clean water.
The African Water Bank prides itself on being able to perform this task efficiently and effectively. It also partners with organizations with expertise in other areas to maximize the benefits of a clean water point.
Each dollar invested in the provision of clean water generates eleven dollars of community benefit within one year. If you are interested in learning more or helping in the fight for clean water contact the Africa Water Bank.
The Africa Water Bank
Meghanlife@gmail.com
meghanmitchell@africawaterbank.org
