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Major public health challenges in our country 

Published : Saturday, 15 March, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 511
ATIFA ANJUMAN
Public health challenges vary across regions, but three persistent and interlinked issues-dengue fever, malnutrition, and limited access to healthcare-pose significant threats to populations worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. These challenges not only endanger lives but also place immense burdens on healthcare systems, economies, and overall societal well-being.

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease, has witnessed a dramatic rise in cases over recent decades, largely due to urbanization, climate change, and inadequate vector control measures. The disease, caused by four serotypes of the dengue virus (DENV-1 to DENV-4), is transmitted primarily by Aedesaegypti and Aedesalbopictus mosquitoes.The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly half of the global population is at risk of dengue, with 100-400 million infections occurring annually. Previously confined to tropical and subtropical regions, dengue has expanded into temperate areas due to shifting climate patterns that facilitate mosquito breeding.

Rapid urbanization and poor waste management have also contributed to the spread by creating ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes.Dengue fever presents a spectrum of symptoms, ranging from mild flu-like illness to severe complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Severe cases can lead to internal bleeding, organ failure and death if not treated promptly. The economic burden of dengue is substantial, as outbreaks strain healthcare facilities, disrupt productivity, and impose financial hardships on affected families.

Vector Control by eliminating mosquito breeding sites through community-led sanitation efforts, using insecticides, and deploying innovative biological control measures such as releasing Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes that suppress virus transmission. Establishing surveillance and early warning systems by strengthening disease monitoring networks to detect outbreaksand implement timely interventions.The introduction of vaccines such as Dengvaxia and Qdenga offers a promising tool in dengue prevention, though deployment challenges remain due to concerns about vaccine-induced complications in previously uninfected individuals.Public awareness campaigns by educating communities on protective measures, such as wearing long sleeves, using mosquito repellents, and eliminating stagnant water sources.

Malnutrition remains one of the most pressing public health challenges, affecting millions globally. It encompasses both undernutrition (wasting, stunting, and micronutrient deficiencies) and overnutrition (obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases).Many countries now face a "double burden" of malnutrition, where undernutrition and obesity coexist within the same population, often even within the same household. This paradox arises from shifts in dietary patterns, increasing reliance on processed foods, and socioeconomic inequalities that limit access to nutritious food.

Stunting (low height-for-age) affects nearly 22% of children under five globally and has long-term consequences, including impaired cognitive development, reduced productivity, and increased susceptibility to chronic diseases.Wasting is a severe form of acute malnutrition that heightens the risk of mortality, particularly in children.Micronutrient Deficiencies, also known as "hidden hunger," arise from insufficient intake of essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin A, and iodine. These deficiencies contribute to anemia, weakened immunity, and developmental delays.

At the other end of the malnutrition spectrum, obesity rates have surged due to dietary shifts favoring high-calorie, nutrient-poor foods, coupled with sedentary lifestyles. The rise in obesity is linked to increased rates of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other metabolic disorders, placing additional strain on healthcare systems.

Tackling malnutrition requires a holistic, multi-sectorial approach that involves governments, healthcare systems, food industries, and communities. Encouraging the production of diverse, nutrient-rich crops and promoting sustainable food systems.Enrich staple foods with essential micronutrients, such as iodized salt, fortified flour, and vitamin A-enriched cooking oil.Provide balanced meals to children to support growth and cognitive development.Educate communities about healthy dietary practices and the importance of breastfeeding, particularly in the first 1,000 days of life.Implementing policies such as sugar taxes, clearer food labeling, and restrictions on unhealthy food advertising targeted at children.

Access to quality healthcare remains a fundamental human right, yet millions worldwide continue to face significant barriers. These barriers manifest in various forms, including geographical limitations, financial constraints, systemic inefficiencies, and socio-cultural factors.Rural and remote populations often lack healthcare facilities, forcing individuals to travel long distances to access medical services.High out-of-pocket costs prevent many from seeking medical care, particularly in countries without universal health coverage (UHC).Many regions suffer from a lack of trained healthcare professionals, leading to overburdened systems and long waiting times.Weak health infrastructure, including poor sanitation, lack of medical supplies, and outdated equipment, hinders effective service delivery.Discrimination, stigma, and lack of awareness can prevent marginalized groups from seeking healthcare.

Addressing healthcare disparities requires a combination of policy reforms, technological innovations, and community-driven initiatives. Expansion of universal health coverage (UHC) by ensures financial protection through government-funded healthcare programs, social insurance schemes, and subsidy models.Telemedicine and digital health solutions by leveraging technology to provide remote consultations, monitor chronic diseases, and improve access to medical expertise in underserved areas. Train local health workers to provide basic medical care, maternal health services, and vaccination programs, particularly in rural communities.Investing in primary healthcare infrastructure to provide essential services, reduce the burden on hospitals, and promote preventive care.Collaborating with private entities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to enhance service delivery and develop cost-effective health solutions.

Dengue fever, malnutrition, and limited healthcare access are deeply interconnected. Malnourished individuals, particularly children, are more vulnerable to severe dengue due to weakened immune systems. In turn, dengue outbreaks strain already fragile healthcare systems, reducing their capacity to address other pressing health issues, including malnutrition. Furthermore, inadequate healthcare access exacerbates both conditions, as delayed diagnosis and treatment contribute to worse health outcomes.A comprehensive, integrated public health approach is crucial to breaking this cycle. Governments must prioritize investments in preventive healthcare, disease surveillance, and infrastructure development while fostering cross-sectorial collaboration to address the root causes of these challenges.

Dengue fever, malnutrition, and limited access to healthcare represent formidable public health challenges that require urgent and sustained action. While each issue has distinct complexities, they are inextricably linked and demand holistic, multi-pronged solutions. Strengthening healthcare systems, investing in preventive measures, and fostering community engagement are essential steps toward a healthier and more resilient global population. By addressing these challenges collaboratively, policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities can pave the way for a future where preventable diseases no longer claim lives unnecessarily.

The writer is Broadcast Journalist and News Presenter, Independent Television


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