Top 3 Deadly Diseases That Are Still Affecting Millions
When we think about diseases that have plagued humanity over the years, we usually picture the Black Death or smallpox. However, there are still plenty of deadly diseases affecting millions all over the world. Here are the top three.
1. Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that mainly targets the lungs. Although it can be preventable and curable, it still affects millions of people each year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020, there were an estimated 10 million new TB cases worldwide, with most of them occurring in developing countries.
TB is primarily spread through the air when someone with an active infection coughs or sneezes, and another person inhales the bacteria. People who are malnourished, have weakened immune systems, or are living in crowded and unsanitary conditions are at higher risk of getting TB.
Although TB is more common in populous countries such as India and China, it is still a significant concern in the United States. Efforts to reduce TB transmission include early diagnosis, isolation of infectious people, and timely treatment.
2. Malaria
Malaria is a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes. Although it’s entirely preventable and curable, it continues to kill hundreds of thousands of people each year, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
The most effective method to prevent malaria is through the use of bed nets treated with insecticide and indoor spraying of insecticide to kill mosquitoes. However, not everyone has access to these measures, and many people in areas with malaria are not diagnosed or treated until it is too late.
Moreover, malaria can cause significant economic damage by reducing worker productivity and increasing healthcare costs. The WHO recently announced a new program to intensify its efforts to eradicate malaria by increasing investments in research and development.
3. HIV/AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV attacks the immune system, progressively weakening it over time, making it difficult for the body to fight off other infections and diseases. Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help people with HIV live long and healthy lives, many people still don’t have access to it, especially those in developing countries.
According to the WHO, approximately 38 million people were living with HIV/AIDS worldwide in 2020, and 690,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses. HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
Despite significant progress in HIV/AIDS treatment, access to care remains a challenge. Stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV still exist in many areas, making it difficult for people to access care. Moreover, certain populations such as men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, and sex workers are more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and face additional social and legal barriers to care.
In conclusion, although there has been significant progress in combating some of the deadliest diseases affecting humanity, there is still much work to be done to eradicate them. We must continue to invest in research and treatment programs while also addressing social and economic factors that contribute to their spread. By working together, we can create a healthier and more equitable world for all.
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