Snakebite burden in Sub-Saharan Africa: estimates from 41 countries. (1st March 2019) - Halilu, Sadiq
Abstract: There is no reliable estimate of burden of snakebite-envenoming (SBE) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We derived from a meta-analysis the burden of SBE related deaths, amputations and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in 41 countries in SSA. The annual burden was estimated at 1.03 million DALYs (95% Confidence Interval: 0.80–1.28 million DALYs). This is similar to or higher than the burden of many Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and the finding advocates for a commensurate resources allocation towards control of SBE. Highlights: The burden of snakebite envenoming (SBE) in sub-Saharan Africa is considerable. In addition to mortality, amputations and post-traumatic stress disorder account for a sizable proportion of the burden. The total annual burden is estimated at 1.03 million DALYs (95% Confidence Interval: 0.80 - 1.28 million DALYs). The burden of SBE surpasses that of many other Neglected Tropical Diseases and requires more resources for control.