Apr '11
Although African communities are under the greatest threat of malaria, the disease is a reality in many other developing countries. In some states in Brazil, particularly those located near the Amazon forest, malaria constitutes the major public health problem. In this region, favorable climatic conditions coupled with vast water sources give malaria-carrying mosquitoes a comfortable home to reproduce and spread.
To better manage the risks of malaria transmission in the region, BASF partnered with Foundation for Health Surveillance in Amazonas (FVS - AM) to assess how Interceptor, BASF's long-lasting insecticidal bed net, could support local communities in their efforts to prevent the disease.
The community of Jabote (municipality of Urucará) was chosen to host the study because it is known as one of the major hotspots for malaria outbreaks. In Jabote, traditional prevention methods could not be easily applied, meaning that malaria had become as common as a cold.
In late 2008, the project kicked off: Interceptor nets were placed in all houses in Jabote. Residents were also coached on how to use the product and the purpose it served. From that point on, monthly monitoring revealed astonishing results. In 2007, when 132 people lived in the community, there were 465 cases of malaria. That translates to an infection rate of 3.52 cases per person, meaning that each person in Jabote contracted malaria at least three times a year. In 2010, with a population of 200 people, the rate of malaria was reduced to only 0.12 cases per capita. For every 12 people, only one acquired the disease.
The positive spiral effects spread throughout the community. The burden of malaria had prevented children from regularly attending school. But with the dramatic reduction in malaria cases, going to school was possible again. Literacy objectives were achieved in just two years. These effects typify one of the major targets of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, namely that a healthier, more educated population is key to sustainably support poverty reduction.
Interceptor is a result of BASF`s leadership both in textile chemistry and agricultural products. A polymer binder system is combined with Fendona, a fast-acting BASF insecticide, and applied directly to the fibers of the nets in a unique, proprietary treatment process. This regulates a continuous, slow and controlled release of the insecticide and ensures long term effectiveness, knocking down and killing malaria-transmitting mosquitoes even after three years of use.
With its commitment to improving public health and its innovative portfolio of products, BASF is convinced that supporting and engaging in simple, local projects can bring life-changing results, like those experienced in Jabote. The goal is not only to prevent malaria from spreading, but also to fortify good ideas and initiatives that impact those most exposed to the disease. One step at a time.
BASF
Must ReadView All
Apparel/Garments | On 26th Apr 2018
FOBAP in the Philippines trying for garments sector revival
The Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP), a body...
Textiles | On 26th Apr 2018
German investors keen to invest in Pakistan: top official
A German traders delegation will soon visit Pakistan to explore...
Textiles | On 26th Apr 2018
Uster Technologies acquires Elbit Vision Systems
Uster Technologies has announced the successful closure of the...
Interviews View All
Sanjay Desai & Ashish Mulani
True Colors
Digital textile printing will be the technology of the future
Amit Jain
Shingora Textiles Ltd
‘In terms of fabric, the fastest growing category for us is a blend of...
Karan Toshniwal
Orange O Tec
Contemporary industry is paying more and more attention to the...
Softech Controls Private Limited (SCPL) is a part of the Cotmac Group, an...
Founded in 1999 by Navin Patel in the name of Tejas Fabrics with 100...
MAG Solvics Private Limited was established in 1991 to design and develop...
Silke Brand-Kirsch
Schlegel und Partner
Silke Brand-Kirsch, executive partner of Schlegel und Partner, a leading...
Mark Paterson
Technical Absorbents Ltd
Mark Paterson, R&D manager of Technical Absorbents Ltd talks about Super...
Kerem Durdag
Biovation II LLC
Kerem Durdag, CEO, Biovation II LLC, provides an insight into future...
Cigdem Akin
Cigdem Akin
She has carved a niche for herself as the national brand of Turkey. Her...
Akta Adani
India Boulevard
India Boulevard is a San Francisco-based curated fashion marketplace that...
Judy Frater
Somaiya Kala Vidya
Among the many honours showered on Frater, including Fulbright and Ford...
Leave your Comments
Recommended
Want to know what happened in the textile world this week? Watch now!
news category
Related Categories:
Do you think the sustainability space has the needed tools and resources available for a business to lead change?
Yes No SkipActive Poll
Do you see sustainability as a route to business growth?
YesTotal Votes: 103
Do you think adopting a sustainable approach will be a profitable move for your business?
Yes No SkipActive Poll
Do you think the sustainability space has the needed tools and resources available for a business to lead change?
YesTotal Votes: 103
Do you want the world to know about your sustainability journey and your business’ environmental footprint?
Yes No SkipActive Poll
Do you think adopting a sustainable approach will be a profitable move for your business?
YesTotal Votes: 103
Thanks for your valuable feedback. Claim your free latest sustainability e-book.
Active Poll
Do you want the world to know about your sustainability journey and your business’ environmental footprint?
YesTotal Votes: 103
E-News Insight
Latest News Update in Your Mail Box.
