Title : A critical assessment of dengue fever in Cambodia, Singapore, and Thailand: Examining the role of social determinants in determining effectiveness and sustainability of vector control programmes
Abstract:
Introduction: Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne infection which affects millions of people worldwide each year. An overwhelming majority of cases occur in Southeast (SE) Asia. Whilst many cases are asymptomatic, rising severity and mortality highlight the urgent need for effective vector control. Social determinants of health – such as poverty, education, and geography – act as barriers to healthcare, influencing the success of vector control measures.
Aim: This dissertation aims to evaluate government-implemented control programmes, analysing how social determinants shape their success and sustainability. Methods: A thematic literature review was conducted, analysing academic literature regarding the effectiveness of vector control and dengue prevalence. Comparatively, national documents were critically assessed to examine the extent to which determinants were incorporated into dengue control policies.
Results: The literature was separated based on the social determinants it addresses; poverty, education, and geography. Evidence illustrates that these social determinants significantly impact prevalence of dengue fever and the effectiveness of vector control programmes. Analysis of policies illustrated the range of challenges faced by governments, and differences in approaches to overcome social barriers.
Conclusion: Social determinants of health play a critical role in the success of vector control programmes. Despite government acknowledgement, policies lack future directions and fail to correct for these variables. Previous government failures have contributed to environmental damage, such as unregulated urbanisation, which exacerbates social factors such as poverty and overcrowding. Strengthening infrastructures, whilst addressing social inequalities is essential for sustainable vector control programmes.
