Other Health Challenges in Congo
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Other Health Challenges in Congo
Introduction
While traveling to a new foreign country, visitors must understand various factors,
including its culture. However, the highly prevalent diseases, especially communicable diseases,
should also be prioritized to ensure the safety of those traveling into the country. Congo has one
of the most vulnerable and unprotected populations, with life-threatening diseases such as Ebola
being reported frequently. Apart from malaria, which is among the most prevalent, other
concerning cases include tuberculosis, Ebola, and Rift Valley Fever (RVF).
Other Health Challenge #1: Tuberculosis
Analysis
Tuberculosis is among the leading causes of high mortality rates, together with
comorbidities like HIV. In 2021, the disease had a high incidence rate of 370 cases in every
100,000 people in Congo. The mortality rate reflected an increasing pattern of 54 cases in every
100,000. This is particularly common in the immunocompromised populations.
Tuberculosis presents with prolonged cough, which sometimes has blood, especially in
severe stages where treatment has not been sought. It may also present with fatigue, weakness,
and chest pain. One prominent is significant weight loss, which presents after one has had the
disease for a considerable period (World Health Organization, 2024). Other common symptoms
include night sweats and fever. While these symptoms are common, they present at varying
lengths following the infection depending on various issues, including the individuals' immunity
level and the part of the body affected.
Various social determinants of health are implicated in the presentation and the
prevalence of tuberculosis in Congo. The primary determinants are environment and