Tropical diseases

Tropical diseases are diseases that are prevalent in or unique to tropical and subtropical regions. The diseases are less prevalent in temperate climates, due in part to the occurrence of a cold season, which controls the insect population by forcing hibernation. However, many were present in northern Europe and northern America in the 17th and 18th centuries before modern understanding of disease causation. The initial impetus for tropical medicine was to protect the health of colonial settlers, notably in India under the British Raj.

Classification

Tropical diseases are primarily caused by microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and fungi. Many of these diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis, are transmitted by insects like mosquitoes and flies that thrive in tropical environments. Others, such as cholera and typhoid, are spread through contaminated water or food.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment of tropical diseases vary greatly depending on the specific disease. For diseases transmitted by insects, prevention methods often involve reducing the population of the transmitting insect and avoiding bites. This can be achieved through the use of insecticides, bed nets, and insect repellent. For diseases spread through contaminated water or food, prevention can often be achieved through the provision of clean water and food safety measures.

Treatment of tropical diseases also varies greatly. Some diseases, such as malaria, can be treated with antimalarial drugs. Others, like dengue fever, do not have a specific treatment and management of the disease involves treating the symptoms.

Impact

Tropical diseases have a significant impact on health and economies in tropical and subtropical regions. They often cause a high burden of morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-income countries. In addition to the direct impact on health, these diseases can also have significant social and economic impacts, including reducing individuals' ability to work and care for their families, and hindering economic development.

See Also

• Neglected tropical diseases
• Tropical medicine
• World Health Organization