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Question 2 — Development and health (a) Water-related diseases such as malaria have many impacts on the development of a country - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 2 - 2023
Question 2
Question 2 — Development and health (a) Water-related diseases such as malaria have many impacts on the development of a country. Referring to malaria, or any other... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 2 — Development and health (a) Water-related diseases such as malaria have many impacts on the development of a country - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 2 - 2023
Step 1
Discuss the impacts of malaria on development
Answer
Malaria significantly affects the development of countries, particularly in low-income regions.
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Economic Burden: The disease incurs high healthcare costs and limits productivity due to time lost from work. Families often face reduced income as members are incapacitated by illness, affecting overall economic growth.
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Impact on Education: In areas where malaria is endemic, children, especially girls, may miss school due to illness and caregiving responsibilities, perpetuating cycles of poverty.
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Reproductive Health: Malaria affects both maternal and child health, as pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, potentially leading to higher infant mortality rates and reduced workforce participation in the future.
Step 2
Describe these strategies
Answer
Some primary health care strategies include:
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Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT): This is a simple, cost-effective treatment for dehydration caused by diarrhea. It involves administering a mixture of clean water, salt, and sugar to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.
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Distribution of Insecticide-treated Nets (ITNs): These nets provide a barrier against mosquito bites, significantly reducing malaria transmission rates.
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Vaccination Programs: Targeted at children and vulnerable populations, these programs aim to provide immunity against common waterborne diseases.
Step 3
Comment on their effectiveness
Answer
The effectiveness of these strategies can be assessed as follows:
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Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT): ORT has been highly effective in reducing mortality rates associated with dehydration from diarrhea, demonstrating a simple method with substantial impact, particularly in rural areas.
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Distribution of Insecticide-treated Nets (ITNs): Studies show a marked decrease in malaria cases where ITNs are widely distributed, making them pivotal in tackling malaria in high-risk areas.
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Vaccination Programs: While vaccinations have shown promise, their success depends on logistics, public awareness, and healthcare infrastructure, illustrating a need for comprehensive healthcare support systems to optimize their effectiveness.