Photo AI
Use the following data to answer parts (a) and (b) - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 32 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 32
Use the following data to answer parts (a) and (b). Dengue fever and malaria are examples of infectious diseases transmitted between humans by mosquitoes. Dengue fe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Use the following data to answer parts (a) and (b) - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 32 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Part (a): Identify relevant global trends in malaria and dengue fever, based on the data provided.
Answer
The data shows that the global population has increased over the years, reaching 6.8 billion by 2010 from just 1.2 billion in 1900. Notably, the number of countries reporting cases of malaria has fluctuated, peaking at 140 in 1900 before decreasing to 48 in 1992 and then rising again to 83 by 2010. This suggests improved reporting and awareness over time. The population at risk for malaria has generally increased, but the percentage of the global population at risk has shown variability. The distribution of dengue fever is less clear from this data, but the increase in the global population indicates broader potential for its spread.
Step 2
Part (b): Provide a thorough analysis of factors that could have affected the global distribution over time of both malaria and dengue fever.
Answer
The global distribution of both dengue fever and malaria is closely tied to the habitats and behaviors of their respective mosquito vectors. Factors influencing their distributions include:
-
Urbanization and travel: Increased urbanization has altered the habitats of mosquito vectors, with cities providing suitable breeding grounds. Additionally, global travel has enabled the rapid spread of both diseases.
-
Climate change: Changing climate patterns influence mosquito habitats, affecting their breeding cycles and the geographical spread of these diseases. Warmer temperatures may extend mosquito breeding seasons and allow species to thrive in previously unsuitable areas.
-
Public health initiatives: Advances in vaccination, insecticide usage, and public health education have impacted mosquito populations and disease transmission. Efforts to control mosquito lifecycle, such as source reduction and targeted insecticide spraying, have been essential in certain regions.
-
Global health policies: International response efforts and funding for preventing malaria and dengue fever have varied, affecting the effectiveness of resource allocation and public health campaigns.
-
Medical advancements: Improvements in treatment, including the development of effective vaccines and antimalarial drugs, have influenced the public's vulnerability to these diseases. For instance, the introduction of a vaccine for dengue fever could reshape its prevalence in affected regions.
By understanding these factors, we can better comprehend the dynamic distribution of both malaria and dengue fever globally.