Malaria and DDT

Problems/Case Studies

"To Spray or Not to Spray: A Debate Over Malaria and DDT" Frank J. Dinan and Joseph F. Bieron, Canisius College. State University of New York at Buffalo’s National Center for Case Study Teaching
In this case study, students grapple with the complex issues surrounding the use of DDT to control malaria. In their examination of the issue, students consider risk/benefit analysis and the precautionary principle, two techniques used when making policy decisions involving the impact of science and technology on society.
This case has been used in a senior honors seminar for both majors and non-majors dealing with the nature and impact of science and technology on society as well as in an organic chemistry course for science majors.

CNN Video Clips

Topic: South African Malaria Epidemic: Biology 5th Ed. CNN Ed 2001 (2:57)
In parts of South Africa, malaria is epidemic and kills more people than AIDS.  The symptoms of malaria are described.  Drug resistance in the parasite, pesticide-resistance in the mosquito vector, and increased rains are contributing to the increase in cases.  To fight the epidemic, the government has instituted a program of mosquito eradication and has resumed spraying with DDT.  The worksheet includes the URL for the World Health Organization, which is working to eradicate malaria.  (Student worksheet provided on CD)


Articles in "Taking Sides"

"Should DDT Be Banned Worldwide?" Easton, Thomas. Taking Sides: Science, Technology, and Society, sixth edition.
Issue Summary:

• YES: Anne Platt McGinn, a senior researcher at the Worldwatch Institute, argues that although DDT is still used to fight malaria, there are other, more effective and less environmentally harmful methods. She maintains that DDT should be banned or reserved for emergency use. (from "Malaria, Mosquitoes, and DDT"  World Watch, May/June 2002).

• NO: Roger Bate, director of Africa Fighting Malaria, asserts that DDT is the cheapest and most effective way to combat malaria and that it should remain available for use. (from "A Case of the DDTs", National Review, May 14, 2001)

"Should DDT Be Banned Worldwide?" Easton, Thomas. Taking Sides: Environmental Issues, eleventh edition.
Issue Summary:

• YES: Anne Platt McGinn, a senior researcher at the Worldwatch Institute, argues that although DDT is still used to fight malaria, there are other, more effective and less environmentally harmful methods. She maintains that DDT should be banned or reserved for emergency use. (from "Malaria, Mosquitoes, and DDT"  World Watch, May/June 2002).

• NO: Alexander Gourevitch, an American Prospect writing fellow, argues that properly used, DDT is not as dangerous as its reputation insists and that it remains the cheapest and most effective way to combat malaria. (from "Better Living Through Chemistry", Washington Monthly, March 2003)

"Should DDT Be Banned Worldwide?" Easton, Thomas. Taking Sides: Environmental Issues, twelfth edition.

                YES:  Anne Platt McGinn, a senior researcher at the Worldwatch Institute, argues that although DDT is still used to fight malaria, there are other, more     effective and less environmentally harmful methods. She maintains that DDT should be banned or reserved for emergency use.

                NO:  Donald R. Roberts argues that the scientific evidence regarding the environmental hazards of DDT has been seriously misrepresented by anti-pesticide activists.  The hazards of malaria are much greater and, properly used, DDT can prevent them and save lives.