In honor of World Malaria Day, ASTMH asked some of our malaria expert members and colleagues what inspired them to specialize in malaria, what stands out in the fight against malaria and what will be the economic benefit of a malaria-free world. Other interviews in this series include: Past President Christopher V. Plowe, MD, MPH, FASTMH; Rear Adm. Timothy Ziemer of the President's Malaria Initiative; Philip Rosenthal, MD, FASTMH, Editor-in-Chief of American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene; Councilors Nicole Achee, PhD, ASTMH, Laurence Slutsker, MD, MPH, FASTMH, David A. Fidock, PhD, Rick Fairhurst, MD, PhD, FASTMH; Capt. Judith E. Epstein, MD, of the Naval Medical Research Center; and Col. Robert M. Paris of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.
What situation or person inspired you to specialize in malaria?
I did my PhD research on cancer, but during that period I traveled to Africa for the first time. I was inspired by the people I met, in particular the families who endured such hardships and yet always gave me a warm smile. I thought that doing research on malaria was a way to use my scientific training to give back. I love being involved in research both in the lab and in the field, and seeing how we can translate our scientific discoveries into new ways to control malaria. I also love working with colleagues from malaria-endemic countries who are highly motivated to reduce the burden of this disease.
Saving lives is what drives you, but what do you see as the economic benefit to eradicating malaria?
Malaria and other debilitating diseases jeopardize people’s livelihoods. Kids are unable to go to school when they are sick and adults cannot work. This creates a huge economic burden within families in the short-term, and impacts the long-term prosperity of a nation. If malaria is eradicated, health spending in developing countries can be directed to other health issues and support a healthier workforce.
In thinking about malaria control and elimination efforts in the last five years, what stands out most for you?
I’m struck by the concerted efforts of diverse people from so many different disciplines. Parasitologists, entomologists, policy advocates, clinicians, engineers, health economists, anthropologists, and so on, are all working together toward the same goal. This is exemplified by the creation of various consortia and international research teams tackling huge challenges, such as vector control, health system infrastructure, access to diagnosis and treatment, and the development of vaccines.