INTRODUCTION

disease, any harmful deviation from the normal structural or functional state of an
organism, generally associated with certain signs and symptoms and differing in
nature from physical injury .A diseased organism commonly exhibits signs or
symptoms indicative of its abnormal state. Thus, the normal condition of an organism
must be understood in order to recognize the hallmarks of disease. Nevertheless, a
sharp demarcation between disease and health is not always apparent.

The study of disease is called pathology . It involves the determination of the cause
(etiology) of the disease, the understanding of the mechanisms of
its development (pathogenesis), the structural changes associated with the disease
process (morphological changes), and the functional consequences of those changes.
Correctly identifying the cause of a disease is necessary to identifying the proper
course of treatment .

Humans, other animals, and plants are all susceptible to diseases of some sort.
However, that which disrupts the normal functioning of one type of organism may
have no effect on the other types.

TYPES OF DISEASES

Common diseases refer to illnesses or health conditions that are prevalent within a
population. These diseases often have a significant impact on public health and can
affect a large number of individuals. Common diseases can be caused by various
factors such as infectious agents, genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices,
environmental factors, and more. Understanding common diseases is crucial for
healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public to implement effective
prevention and treatment strategies.EXAMPLES OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

Malaria: Malaria is a major public health concern in Africa, particularly in sub-

Saharan Africa. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito
and can cause severe illness and death if not promptly treated. According to the World
Health Organization (WHO), Africa accounted for 94% of malaria cases and deaths
globally in 2019.

HIV/AIDS: Sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden of HIV/AIDS globally. The
virus is primarily spread through unprotected sexual intercourse, contaminated blood
transfusions, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. The region
accounts for a substantial portion of the world’s HIV/AIDS cases and continues to
face significant challenges in prevention, treatment, and care.
Tuberculosis (TB): TB is a communicable disease that affects millions of people in
Africa. It is caused by bacteria that are spread through the air when an infected person
coughs or sneezes. The high prevalence of HIV/AIDS has contributed to the increased
incidence of TB in many African countries.
Ebola Virus Disease: Ebola outbreaks have occurred in several African countries,
causing significant morbidity and mortality. The virus is transmitted through direct
contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected people or
animals. The 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa highlighted the devastating
impact of this disease on affected communities.

Cholera: Cholera outbreaks are a recurring problem in parts of Africa, particularly in

areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean water. The disease is
transmitted through contaminated water and food, leading to severe diarrhea and
dehydration.

Non-common diseases, also known as rare diseases, are medical conditions that affect
a small percentage of the population. These diseases are often difficult to diagnose
and treat due to their rarity, and they may not receive as much attention or research
funding as more common illnesses. The exact definition of a rare disease varies by
region, but in the United States, a disease is considered rare if it affects fewer than
200,000 people. Non-common diseases can be genetic, autoimmune, infectious, or
degenerative in nature. They can present a wide range of symptoms and can impact
various organ systems in the body.

Examples of Non-Common Diseases

Eye diseases: Conditions affecting vision, such as age-related macular

degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy.

Ear diseases: Conditions affecting hearing, such as age-related hearing loss,

otosclerosis, and menners disease.

Skin diseases: Conditions affecting the skin, such as psoriasis, atopic

dermatitis (eczema), and various forms of skin cancer.
 Cardiovascular diseases: These include heart diseases, such as coronary
artery disease, heart failure, and hypertension (high blood pressure), as well as
cerebrovascular diseases, like stroke.

Cancer: A group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and

spread of abnormal cells. Common types of cancer include breast, lung, colon,
and prostate cancer.

Causes of Diseases in African Countries

Africa faces a myriad of health challenges, and the causes of diseases in African
countries are multifaceted. These causes can be attributed to various factors including
poverty, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to clean water and
sanitation, malnutrition, infelctious diseases, and environmental factors.
Understanding the specific causes of diseases in African countries is crucial for
developing effective public health interventions and policies.

Poverty and Socioeconomic FactorsPoverty is a significant underlying cause of

diseases in African countries. Limited access to healthcare services, nutritious food,
clean water, and sanitation facilities exacerbates the risk of disease transmission.
Additionally, poverty often leads to overcrowded living conditions, which can
facilitate the spread of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and respiratory
infections.

Inadequate Healthcare Infrastructure Many African countries face challenges

related to inadequate healthcare infrastructure. This includes a shortage of healthcare
facilities, medical personnel, essential medications, and medical equipment. The lack
of resources hinders the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various diseases,
contributing to their prevalence.

Limited Access to Clean Water and Sanitation Access to clean water and sanitation
is a fundamental determinant of health. In many African countries, inadequate access
to clean water and proper sanitation facilities increases the risk of waterborne diseases
such as cholera, typhoid fever, and diarrheal illnesses. Poor sanitation also contributes
to the spread of parasitic infections.

Malnutrition Malnutrition is a significant contributor to the burden of disease in

African countries. Both undernutrition and overnutrition pose substantial health risks.
Undernutrition weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to
infectious diseases. On the other hand, overnutrition contributes to non-communicable
diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.

Infectious Diseases African countries bear a disproportionate burden of infectious

diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases.
These diseases thrive due to various factors including inadequate vector control
measures, limited access to preventive interventions like vaccines and antiretroviral
therapy, and challenges in implementing comprehensive disease management
programs.

Environmental Factors Environmental factors play a significant role in shaping the

disease landscape in African countries. Issues such as air pollution, exposure to
toxins, climate change-related impacts, and vector-borne diseases are influenced by
environmental determinants. For instance, climate change can lead to shifts in disease
distribution patterns and increase the prevalence of vector-borne illnesses like dengue
fever and Zika virus.

IMPACT OF DISEASES ON AFRICA

Diseases have had significant impacts on the African continent, affecting the health,
economy, and overall well-being of its people. The region has faced numerous
challenges in combating infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and other
health issues. These impacts are multifaceted and have far-reaching consequences for
individuals, communities, and the continent as a whole.

Health Impacts

The burden of diseases in Africa is substantial, with infectious diseases such as

malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases posing significant
health challenges. Malaria alone has a profound impact on the continent, causing high
mortality rates, particularly among children under five years old. HIV/AIDS has also
had devastating effects, leading to a large number of deaths and impacting the
productivity of the workforce.

Economic Impacts

The economic impacts of diseases in Africa are substantial. The cost of treating and
managing diseases places a significant financial burden on individuals, families, and
healthcare systems. Furthermore, the loss of productivity due to illness and premature
mortality affects economic growth and development.

Social Impacts

Diseases also have profound social impacts on African societies. Stigma and
discrimination associated with certain diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS, can lead to
social exclusion and psychological distress for affected individuals and their families.
Moreover, the caregiving responsibilities that often arise from chronic illnesses can
place strains on family dynamics and community support systems.

Healthcare Infrastructure
The burden of diseases in Africa underscores the importance of robust healthcare
infrastructure. Many countries in Africa face challenges related to inadequate
healthcare facilities, shortages of medical personnel, limited access to essential
medicines, and insufficient funding for public health programs. Strengthening
healthcare systems is crucial for effectively addressing the impacts of diseases on the
continent.

Public Health Interventions

Efforts to mitigate the impacts of diseases in Africa require comprehensive public

health interventions. These include strategies for disease prevention, vaccination
programs, improved access to healthcare services, public health education initiatives,
and investments in research and development for new treatments and interventions.

Challenges of Diseases in Africa

Africa faces a multitude of challenges when it comes to diseases, ranging from

infectious diseases to non-communicable diseases. These challenges are complex and
multifaceted, often stemming from a combination of social, economic, environmental,
and political factors. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing
effective strategies to address the burden of diseases in Africa.

Infectious Diseases

One of the primary challenges faced by Africa is the burden of infectious diseases.
Malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are among
the most prevalent infectious diseases in the region. These diseases not only cause
significant morbidity and mortality but also place a substantial strain on healthcare
systems and economies. Factors such as poverty, inadequate healthcare infrastructure,
and limited access to essential medicines contribute to the persistence of these
infectious diseases in Africa.

Non-Communicable Diseases

In addition to infectious diseases, Africa is experiencing a growing burden of non-

communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and
respiratory conditions. The rise in NCDs is attributed to various factors including
urbanization, lifestyle changes, and an aging population. Limited resources for
prevention, diagnosis, and treatment further exacerbate the impact of NCDs on
African populations.

Healthcare Infrastructure and Access

The inadequacy of healthcare infrastructure and limited access to essential healthcare

services pose significant challenges in addressing diseases in Africa. Many regions
lack sufficient healthcare facilities, trained medical personnel, diagnostic tools, and
essential medicines. This hinders timely diagnosis, treatment, and management of
both infectious and non-communicable diseases.

Socioeconomic Factors

Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, food insecurity, and inadequate sanitation

contribute to the prevalence and impact of diseases in Africa. Poverty limits access to
healthcare services and nutritious food, making individuals more vulnerable to both
infectious and non-communicable diseases. Inadequate sanitation facilities also
contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases.

Political Commitment and Governance

The effectiveness of disease control efforts in Africa is influenced by political

commitment and governance. Adequate allocation of resources, implementation of
evidence-based policies, and strong governance are essential for combating diseases
effectively. Political instability and corruption can hinder efforts to address health
challenges in the region.

Global Health Security

Africa’s vulnerability to disease outbreaks has global implications for health security.
The interconnectedness of global travel and trade means that disease outbreaks in
Africa can quickly spread beyond its borders. Strengthening surveillance systems,
response capabilities, and international collaboration is crucial for mitigating the risk
of pandemics originating from the continent.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It can
lead to severe dehydration and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Causes:

 Cholera spreads primarily through the consumption of contaminated water or

food, especially those with raw or undercooked seafood from affected water
sources.
 The bacterium Vibrio cholerae produces a toxin that affects the small
intestine, leading to watery diarrhea and vomiting.

Symptoms:

 The incubation period for cholera ranges from 2 hours to 5 days after
exposure to the bacterium.
 Common symptoms include:

Profuse, painless diarrhea

 Vomiting

Nausea

Dehydration (signs include dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes, and

decreased urine output)

Cramps in the abdomen

In severe cases, shock and acidosis can occur.

Prevention:

 Improve access to clean water and proper sanitation: This is crucial in

reducing the spread of cholera, especially in areas with poor water and
sanitation infrastructure.
 Vaccination: There are two cholera vaccines available: Oral cholera vaccine
(OCV) and injectable cholera vaccine ( ICV) .They are recommended for
travelers to high-risk areas and for people living in endemic regions.
 Practicing good hygiene and food safety:

1. Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water, especially before
preparing or consuming food.
2. Cook food thoroughly, especially seafood.
3. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked shellfish.
4. Drink only boiled or bottled water, or water that has been treated
with a disinfectant, such as iodine or chlorine.
5. Use safe food handling practices.

Treatment:

 The primary treatment for cholera is the rapid replacement of fluids and
electrolytes lost through vomiting and diarrhea. This can be done through:
 1. Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT): A solution containing water, salt,
and sugar (usually available as ORS packets) can be consumed to help
restore the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body.
2. Intravenous (IV) fluids: In severe cases or for individuals unable to
tolerate ORT, medical professionals may administer fluids and
electrolytes through an IV.

 Antibiotics, such as doxycycline or azithromycin, can be used to shorten the

duration of illness and reduce the risk of complications and transmission.
 Zinc supplementation can also help reduce the duration of diarrhea and
improve overall recovery.

Definition of Health

Health can be defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being,
and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This definition was put forth by
the World Health Organization (WHO) in its constitution. It emphasizes that health is
not just about the absence of illness, but also encompasses overall well-being in
various aspects of life.

Types of health

Physical Health Physical health refers to the proper functioning of the body and its
systems. It involves aspects such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate
sleep, and avoiding harmful substances. Physical health also encompasses the
prevention and management of diseases and injuries, as well as maintaining a healthy
body weight and overall fitness level.
Mental Health Mental health relates to cognitive and emotional well-being. It
encompasses psychological factors such as stress management, resilience, self-
esteem, and the ability to cope with life’s challenges. Mental health also includes
conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. It is
essential for individuals to seek support and treatment when facing mental health
issues

Importance of Health System in Africa

The health system in Africa is of paramount importance due to its significant impact
on the overall well-being and development of the continent. The importance of a
robust health system in Africa can be understood through various key aspects:

1. Public Health and Disease Control: A strong health system is crucial for public
health and disease control in Africa. It plays a vital role in preventing, monitoring,
and managing infectious diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and other
emerging health threats. Additionally, an effective health system facilitates
vaccination programs, maternal and child health services, and the management of
non-communicable diseases.

2. Economic Development: A well-functioning health system is essential for

economic development in Africa. A healthy population contributes to a productive
workforce, which is crucial for sustained economic growth. Furthermore, it reduces
the burden of healthcare costs on individuals and families, allowing them to allocate
resources to other essential needs.

3. Social Well-being and Equity: A strong health system promotes social well-being
and equity by ensuring access to quality healthcare services for all segments of the
population. It helps in reducing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, thereby
contributing to social cohesion and inclusivity.
4. Resilience to Health Emergencies: A robust health system enhances Africa’s
resilience to health emergencies and pandemics. It enables timely responses to
outbreaks, effective surveillance systems, and the capacity to mobilize resources for
emergency healthcare interventions.

5. Research and Innovation: Investment in the health system fosters research and
innovation in healthcare delivery, pharmaceuticals, medical technologies, and
treatment protocols. This contributes to advancements in medical science and
improves the overall quality of healthcare services available to the African population.

6. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):A well-functioning health system is

integral to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United
Nations. It directly impacts goals related to good health and well-being (SDG 3),
gender equality (SDG 5), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and partnerships for the
goals (SDG 17).

Factors of Health Systems in Africa

Social Factors

 Population Growth: Africa has one of the fastest-growing populations globally,

leading to increased pressure on healthcare systems.

Disease Burden: The continent grapples with a high burden of infectious

diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical
diseases.

Economic Factors
 Poverty: Widespread poverty limits individuals’ ability to access quality
healthcare services and afford essential medications.

Healthcare Financing: Inadequate public funding for healthcare

infrastructure and services hinders the development of robust health systems

Political Factors

Governance and Leadership: Weak governance and political instability can

undermine efforts to strengthen health systems and implement effective
healthcare policies.

Corruption: Corruption within healthcare systems can lead to misallocation

of resources and compromised service delivery.

Policy Prioritization: Limited prioritization of healthcare in national agendas

affects the allocation of resources to the sector.

Environmental Factors

Climate Change: Environmental changes impact disease patterns, water

availability, and food security, influencing overall population health.

Infrastructure Challenges: Inadequate infrastructure, including water and

sanitation systems, affects public health outcomes.

Humanitarian Crises: Conflict and natural disasters disrupt healthcare

delivery and exacerbate existing health challenges.

Prevention and Treatment of Health in African Countries

Preventive Measures:

1. Vaccination Programs: Immunization against diseases such as measles,

polio, and tuberculosis is a critical preventive measure in African countries.
Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF work
with governments to ensure widespread vaccination coverage.
2. Health Education: Promoting health education and awareness
campaigns is essential for preventing diseases. This includes educating
communities about hygiene, nutrition, and family planning.
3. Sanitation Improvements: Access to clean water and sanitation
facilities is a fundamental aspect of disease prevention. Efforts are being made
to improve sanitation infrastructure in many African countries.
4. Vector Control: Malaria and other vector-borne diseases are prevalent
in Africa. Vector control measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and
indoor residual spraying are vital for preventing these diseases.

Treatment Interventions:

1. Healthcare Infrastructure Development: Many African countries are

investing in improving their healthcare infrastructure by building hospitals,
clinics, and training healthcare workers to provide better access to treatment.
2. Access to Medications: Ensuring access to essential medications is
crucial for treating various health conditions. Efforts are being made to
improve the availability and affordability of medications in African countries.
3. Disease Management Programs:Programs targeting specific diseases
such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria are being implemented to
provide effective treatment and management for affected individuals.
 4. Telemedicine and Technology: The use of telemedicine and technology
is expanding in Africa, allowing remote access to healthcare services and
medical consultations.

Challenges:

1. Limited Resources: Many African countries face challenges related to

limited financial resources, which impacts their ability to implement
comprehensive healthcare prevention and treatment programs.
2. Infectious Diseases: The prevalence of infectious diseases such as
malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis poses significant challenges to
healthcare systems in Africa.
3. Infrastructure: Inadequate healthcare infrastructure in some regions
hinders the delivery of effective treatment and preventive measures.

Health Systems of Tanzania

The health system in Tanzania is structured to provide healthcare services to its

population. The country’s health system is overseen by the Ministry of Health,
Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children (MOHCDGEC). The system
is designed to ensure that healthcare services are accessible, affordable, and of good
quality for all Tanzanians. The health system in Tanzania comprises various
components including healthcare facilities, healthcare workforce, financing
mechanisms, and governance structures.

Healthcare Facilities Tanzania’s healthcare facilities include hospitals, health

centers, dispensaries, and clinics. These facilities are distributed across the country to
ensure that healthcare services are accessible to the population, especially in rural and
remote areas. Hospitals in Tanzania range from district hospitals to regional referral
hospitals and national referral hospitals. These facilities play a crucial role in
providing specialized care and managing complex medical cases.

Healthcare Workforce The healthcare workforce in Tanzania includes doctors,

nurses, midwives, pharmacists, laboratory technicians, and other allied health
professionals. The country has been working on improving the training and
deployment of healthcare workers to address shortages in certain areas. Efforts have
also been made to enhance the skills and competencies of the existing workforce to
improve the quality of care provided to patients.

Financing Mechanisms The financing of the Tanzanian health system involves

various sources such as government funding, donor support, private sector
investments, and out-of-pocket payments by individuals. The government has been
striving to increase its budget allocation to the health sector to improve service
delivery and infrastructure. Additionally, efforts have been made to strengthen
financial risk protection mechanisms to reduce the financial burden on individuals
seeking healthcare services.

Governance Structures The governance of the health system in Tanzania involves

policy formulation, regulation, and oversight of healthcare delivery. The
MOHCDGEC plays a central role in setting policies and guidelines for the health
sector. At the regional and district levels, there are administrative structures
responsible for coordinating and implementing health programs and initiatives.

Challenges and Opportunities While Tanzania’s health system has made significant
progress in improving access to healthcare services, several challenges persist. These
challenges include inadequate infrastructure in some areas, limited access to essential
medicines and medical supplies, as well as disparities in healthcare delivery between
urban and rural areas. However, there are ongoing efforts to address these challenges
through strategic planning, partnerships with international organizations, and
investments in healthcare infrastructure.

CONCLUSION

Also The relationship between diseases and health is multifaceted and dynamic.
Understanding the nature of diseases, their impact on health, preventive measures,
treatment options, and public health considerations is essential for promoting overall
well-being at both individual and societal levels
forexamples of diseases like infection diseases, chronic and genetic disorders

REFERENCE

"Health minister: I don't want to hear any hospital blocking dead bodies because of
bills". The Citizen. 20 December 2020. Retrieved 10 February 2021.^ "Physicians
(per 1,000 people) - Tanzania | Data". data.worldbank.org. Retrieved 15 August 2020.

^ "Medical Council of Tanganyika - About Us". www.mct.go.tz. Retrieved 15

August 2020.

nssf. "Social Health Benefits in Tanzania". nssf. Retrieved 8 September 2015.

^ Borghi, J.; Maluka, S.; Kuwawenaruwa, A.; Makwai, S.; Tantau, J.; Mtei, G.; Ally,
M.; Macha, J. (2013). "Promoting universal financial protection: a case study of new
management of community health insurance in Tanzania". Health Research Policy
and Systems. 11: 21. doi:10.1186/1478-4505-11-21. PMC 3686629. PMID 23763711.

^ "Strategis Insurance (Tanzania) Ltd". strategistz.com. Archived from the originalon

25 September 2015. Retrieved 26 May2015.

Bultman, J.; Kanywanyi, J. L.; Maarifa, H.; Mtei, G. (2012). Tanzania Health
Insurance Regulatory Framework Review. Ministry of Health and Social welfare and
Social Security Regulatory Authority.
National Health Insurance Fund". nhif.or.tz. Archived from the original on 8 June
2015. Retrieved 26 May 2015.
Heymann DL, Nunn M. Control of communicable diseases manual. American Public
Health Association; 2008.
Jefferson T, Del Mar CB, Dooley L, et al. Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce
the spread of respiratory viruses. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2011. p