Spatial Agent-Based Simulation Modeling in Public Health


Book Description

Presents an overview of the complex biological systems used within a global public health setting and features a focus on malaria analysis Bridging the gap between agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS) and geographic information systems (GIS), Spatial Agent-Based Simulation Modeling in Public Health: Design, Implementation, and Applications for Malaria Epidemiology provides a useful introduction to the development of agent-based models (ABMs) by following a conceptual and biological core model of Anopheles gambiae for malaria epidemiology. Using spatial ABMs, the book includes mosquito (vector) control interventions and GIS as two example applications of ABMs, as well as a brief description of epidemiology modeling. In addition, the authors discuss how to most effectively integrate spatial ABMs with a GIS. The book concludes with a combination of knowledge from entomological, epidemiological, simulation-based, and geo-spatial domains in order to identify and analyze relationships between various transmission variables of the disease. Spatial Agent-Based Simulation Modeling in Public Health: Design, Implementation, and Applications for Malaria Epidemiology also features: Location-specific mosquito abundance maps that play an important role in malaria control activities by guiding future resource allocation for malaria control and identifying hotspots for further investigation Discussions on the best modeling practices in an effort to achieve improved efficacy, cost-effectiveness, ecological soundness, and sustainability of vector control for malaria An overview of the various ABMs, GIS, and spatial statistical methods used in entomological and epidemiological studies, as well as the model malaria study A companion website with computer source code and flowcharts of the spatial ABM and a landscape generator tool that can simulate landscapes with varying spatial heterogeneity of different types of resources including aquatic habitats and houses Spatial Agent-Based Simulation Modeling in Public Health: Design, Implementation, and Applications for Malaria Epidemiology is an excellent reference for professionals such as modeling and simulation experts, GIS experts, spatial analysts, mathematicians, statisticians, epidemiologists, health policy makers, as well as researchers and scientists who use, manage, or analyze infectious disease data and/or infectious disease-related projects. The book is also ideal for graduate-level courses in modeling and simulation, bioinformatics, biostatistics, public health and policy, and epidemiology.




Simulating the impact of malaria control interventions


Book Description

Malaria is one of the major public health problems for low income countries, a major global health priority, and it has also a dramatic economic impact. Standard tools traditionally used to assess the public health and economic impact of malaria control interventions, such as efficacy trials and static cost-effectiveness analyses, capture only short term effects. They fail to take into account long term and dynamic effects due to the complex dynamic of malaria, and to the interactions between intervention effectiveness and health systems. This study aimed at developing integrated mathematical models for predicting the epidemiologic and economic effects of malaria control interventions. The study combines innovative mathematical models of malaria epidemiology with innovative modeling of the health system and of the costs and effects of malaria control interventions. These approaches are applied to simulate the epidemiological impact and the cost-effectiveness of hypothetical malaria vaccines. Combining advanced stochastic simulation modeling of malaria epidemiology with health system dynamic modeling is a crucial innovation proposed by the approaches presented in this thesis.




Disease Control Priorities, Third Edition (Volume 6)


Book Description

Infectious diseases are the leading cause of death globally, particularly among children and young adults. The spread of new pathogens and the threat of antimicrobial resistance pose particular challenges in combating these diseases. Major Infectious Diseases identifies feasible, cost-effective packages of interventions and strategies across delivery platforms to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS, other sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, malaria, adult febrile illness, viral hepatitis, and neglected tropical diseases. The volume emphasizes the need to effectively address emerging antimicrobial resistance, strengthen health systems, and increase access to care. The attainable goals are to reduce incidence, develop innovative approaches, and optimize existing tools in resource-constrained settings.




Disease and Mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa


Book Description

Current data and trends in morbidity and mortality for the sub-Saharan Region as presented in this new edition reflect the heavy toll that HIV/AIDS has had on health indicators, leading to either a stalling or reversal of the gains made, not just for communicable disorders, but for cancers, as well as mental and neurological disorders.




Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030


Book Description

The World Health Organization's Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016- 2030 has been developed with the aim to help countries to reduce the human suffering caused by the world's deadliest mosquito-borne disease. Adopted by the World Health Assembly in May 2015 it provides comprehensive technical guidance to countries and development partners for the next 15 years emphasizing the importance of scaling up malaria responses and moving towards elimination. It also highlights the urgent need to increase investments across all interventions - including preventive measures diagnostic testing treatment and disease surveillance- as well as in harnessing innovation and expanding research. By adopting this strategy WHO Member States have endorsed the bold vision of a world free of malaria and set the ambitious new target of reducing the global malaria burden by 90% by 2030. They also agreed to strengthen health systems address emerging multi-drug and insecticide resistance and intensify national cross-border and regional efforts to scale up malaria responses to protect everyone at risk.




The Onchocerciasis Control Programme in West Africa


Book Description

An analysis of the many factors that have contributed to the striking success of the Onchocerciasis Control Program in West Africa (OCP), a major public health initiative now entering its twenty-first year. Throughout its history, OCP has been distinguished by its large size, the complexity of its operations, the long time frame needed for success, and the degree of commitment required by donors and participating countries alike. The Program has also been distinguished by its explicit aim to eliminate a disease, which has been a major obstacle to socioeconomic development as well as a cause of great disability and suffering. In examining the Program's many successful features, the author, who has directed OCP since late 1980, draws upon extensive personal experience, supported by the results of several external evaluations, to show how international collaboration, careful planning, and well managed field operations can overcome what may seem to be insurmountable obstacles. Throughout this analysis, an effort is made to extract lessons useful in the management of other large public health programs. The book also gives careful attention to managerial principles that will be important when OCP ceases operation and participating countries take over responsibility for the surveillance and management of recrudescence. The book has two parts. Chapters in the first part give a detailed account of the history, structure, operation, and achievements of OCP. Part two, on the management of OCP, explains how sound budgeting, detailed plans, time-limited goals, task-focused training, and careful computation of costs worked to maintain well-organized operations and keep staff motivated and efficient




The Garki Project


Book Description




Malaria


Book Description

Malaria is making a dramatic comeback in the world. The disease is the foremost health challenge in Africa south of the Sahara, and people traveling to malarious areas are at increased risk of malaria-related sickness and death. This book examines the prospects for bringing malaria under control, with specific recommendations for U.S. policy, directions for research and program funding, and appropriate roles for federal and international agencies and the medical and public health communities. The volume reports on the current status of malaria research, prevention, and control efforts worldwide. The authors present study results and commentary on the: Nature, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and epidemiology of malaria. Biology of the malaria parasite and its vector. Prospects for developing malaria vaccines and improved treatments. Economic, social, and behavioral factors in malaria control.




Advances in Malaria Research


Book Description

Thoroughly reviews our current understanding of malarial biology Explores the subject with insights from post-genomic technologies Looks broadly at the disease, vectors of infection, and treatment and prevention strategies A timely publication with chapters written by global researchers leaders