Using decision analysis to improve malaria control policy making.
Malaria and other vector-borne diseases represent a significant and growing burden in many tropical countries. Successfully addressing these threats will require policies that expand access to and use of existing control methods, such as insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) and artemesinin combination therapies (ACTs) for malaria, while weighing the costs and benefits of alternative approaches over time. This paper argues that decision analysis provides a valuable framework for formulating such policies and combating the emergence and re-emergence of malaria and other diseases. We outline five challenges that policy makers and practitioners face in the struggle against malaria, and demonstrate how decision analysis can help to address and overcome these challenges. A prototype decision analysis framework for malaria control in Tanzania is presented, highlighting the key components that a decision support tool should include. Developing and applying such a framework can promote stronger and more effective linkages between research and policy, ultimately helping to reduce the burden of malaria and other vector-borne diseases.
Nicholas School of the Environment, Box 90328, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA. kramer@duke.edu
Randall A
RA
Kramer
Katherine L
KL
Dickinson
Richard M
RM
Anderson
Vance G
VG
Fowler
Marie Lynn
ML
Miranda
Clifford M
CM
Mutero
Kathryn A
KA
Saterson
Jonathan B
JB
Wiener
D000818:Animals; D003661:Decision Support Techniques; D006801:Humans; D007303:Insect Vectors; D008288:Malaria / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009032:Mosquito Control / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration; D011050:Policy Making; D013636:Tanzania