The Truth About Malaria and DDTs, Research Paper Example

“Don’t believe everything you read”.  This statement is true, especially for the current use of DDT for the prevention of Malaria in Africa.  The rise in Malaria has increased in Africa during the last five years and has killed more than one million people per year (Tren and Bate, 1) DDT pesticides are currently being used to prevent mosquitos from spreading in Malaria infested countries within Africa; however, trying to prevent the spread of mosquitos is increasing DDTs in the environment.  DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane) is a synthetic pesticide that was developed for the purpose of controlling insect vectors which carry human diseases, such as malaria and typhus.  (EPA, 2012)  As of 1972, the EPA stopped the use of DDTs based on research that correlated DDT exposure with reproductive defects in living organisms.  (EPA)

Why are DDTs currently being used in Africa if this research has been conducted and the EPA set forth regulations against its use?  It seems that DDTs are effective in reducing the numbers of Malaria cases; however, in the long turn it is leading to longer and more chronic illnesses in pregnant women and children.  For instance, a research team from University of Berkeley found a significant correlation between DDT levels and children’s mental development.  In addition, results from in utero tests with maternal exposure to DDT showed a significant decrease in mental scores as well.  (Greensfelder)

Since Malaria levels are increasing and DDTs seem to be effective, is it okay to introduce DDT pesticides into the environment, knowing that there have been significant correlations with DDT exposure and reproductive dysfunctions?  I think that the harmful effects of DDTs should outweigh the benefits of reducing insects carrying Malaria, especially when there are anti-viral drugs that can prevent the disease.

Works Cited

EPA.  DDT – A Brief History and Status.  2012.  Web.  Retrieved from: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/chemicals/ddt-brief-history-status.htm

Greensfelder, L.  DDT in moms harmful to kids, study suggests. 2006. UC Berkeley News. Web. Retrieved from: http://berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2006/07/05_ddt.shtml

Tren, R. and Bate, R. When Politics Kills. Malaria and the DDT Story.  Retrieved from: www.cei.org/studies-point/when-politics-kills-malaria-and-ddt-story.