Researchers at North Carolina State University have for the first time mapped human disease-causing pathogens, dividing the world into a number of regions where similar diseases occur. The findings show that the world can be separated into seven regions for vectored human diseases – diseases that are spread by pests, like mosquito-borne malaria – and five regions for non-vectored diseases, like cholera.
Interestingly, not all of the regions are contiguous. The British Isles and many of its former colonies, such as the United States and Australia, have similar diseases and are classified in the same vectored and non-vectored regions. But Britain’s former colonies in Africa and Asia contain different diseases and therefore are located in differing regions, suggesting that colonization is just one of a variety of factors, like climate and socio-political status, affecting the prevalence of disease in a specific area.
“This is about more than just the movement of people – climate, history and geography all seem to be important factors in how diseases survive and thrive across the globe,” says Michael Just, a NC State PhD student in plant and microbial biology and lead author of a paper describing the research. “Understanding that not all pathogens are everywhere could have consequences for public health and the global society as a whole.”
The researchers examined the world’s 229 countries for the presence or absence of 301 diseases – 93 vectored and 208 non-vectored. It found two more vectored-disease regions than non-vectored disease regions, which is likely due to the fact that the vectors – the pests that carry disease – sometimes have limited mobility. Think of a warm-weather pest that can’t handle the cold, like the mosquito.
“Researchers have mapped humans, animals and plants and their movement and evolution across the globe, but the things that live on or with us – pests and pathogens, for example – have been largely ignored,” Just said. “This study is a good first step in examining the relationship between people and their pathogens, which could have important human health implications.”
Reference: Just M, et al. Global biogeographic regions in a human-dominated world: the case of human diseases. Published Nov. 21, 2014 in Ecosphere.
Source: NC State University
Managerial Challenges: Setting Boundaries and Priorities in the Workplace
May 3rd 2024Maintaining boundaries can be challenging in a culture of overwork. In this installment of Dear Helpdesk, learn how to communicate effectively with your boss, prioritize your values, and safeguard your work-life balance.
Comprehensive Guide to Lymphedema: Causes, Prevention, and Management Strategies
May 3rd 2024Lymphedema, a chronic condition often stemming from cancer treatments, leads to tissue swelling. Early detection through surveillance programs and proper skincare can prevent complications like infections.
Advancing Viral Disease Treatment of Recurrent Genital Herpes, Hepatitis B and D Viruses
May 2nd 2024Health care has an unmet need for the treatment of herpesviruses, hepatitis B, and hepatitis D, which would enhance patient outcomes. What should be done, and what challenges do companies that are trying to develop treatments face?