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The Guardian view on global aid cuts: a malaria resurgence could be the canary in the coalmine | Editorial

Donald Trump's policy changes and other nations' funding cuts are exacerbating the global malaria crisis, a deadly disease disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations in Africa. Malaria primarily affects young children and pregnant women, causing nearly 600,000 deaths annually on the continent. Despite the urgent need for increased funding, Western donor countries are reducing aid, threatening efforts to eliminate the disease. An expert report warns of a potential resurgence, potentially adding almost a million more deaths by the decade's end. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria provides the majority of funding, with malaria being the most concerning disease for its executive director. The rising number of cases and decreasing financial support create a dangerous situation for public health. The article highlights the discrepancy between stated goals of eliminating malaria and the reality of reduced resources. The focus is on the human cost of these decisions and the potential for a catastrophic reversal in progress. The author suggests a call for action to increase funding and address the looming crisis. The article ends with a call for reader opinions on this public health emergency.
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