Safe Malaria Solutions - Beyond DDT

Pesticide Action Network and our partner groups around the world are calling for a redoubling of efforts to control malaria, a deadly disease that devastates communities worldwide, hitting especially hard in Africa. Malaria must be confronted with the best available technologies and solutions. Spraying of DDT inside homes is not such a solution: it puts families and children at risk, and relying on DDT is not the best way to stop malaria.

Exposure to DDT is especially dangerous to developing infants and children. Sound scientific evidence shows low levels of exposure in the womb can reduce babies' birth weight, cause developmental delays in children, interfere with a mother's ability to breast feed, increase risk of miscarriage, and cause reproductive problems. DDT has been linked to low sperm count in men and labeled a possible cancer causing chemical by international agencies. Some studies show a link to breast cancer. DDT contamination begins from the moment of its production. Residents of Eloor, India are protesting the contamination of their homes, environment and drinking water by a dirty DDT production facility.

Successful community-based programs around the world are using bed nets, improved sanitation, community education, and tracking and early treatment to address malaria without relying on DDT. The international Stockholm Convention - which calls for eventual phase out of all uses of DDT - should help countries shift to these community-based approaches to malaria control.