Medical statisticians help design studies, perform data cleaning and analysis, and interpret findings. Many methods are available, and statisticians help identify and make recommendations. Poorly designed and interpreted studies may lead to wrong conclusions, and statisticians help ensure better findings that can be translated into medical practice and policy change.
\n \n\n \n \nMalaria is mostly controlled through the use of bed nets and insecticides, but progress has stalled and we need new vector control interventions. Mosquitoes can be affected by endectocides carried in the blood of hosts. Clinical trials will determine whether ivermectin administered to human or cattle can be used to impact malaria transmission.
\n \n\n \n \nUnderstanding mutations in the malaria parasite gives us an insight how it escapes the immune system, as well as the mechanisms of drug resistance. This molecular work also helps find better candidates for malaria vaccines. In the long term, surveillance of markers of resistance informs national drug policy.
\n \n\n \n \nThe efficacy of vaccine developed in na\u00efve population (UK or US) often drops dramatically when used in endemic populations, where individuals are exposed to the vaccine disease target. The Human Malaria Infection Model looks at naturally acquired immunity and correlates of protection. Furthermore, scientists in affected areas build capacity and knowledge base, and integration of scientific thought and processes.
\n \n\n \n \nChild mortality from infectious diseases in the tropics has decreased, but a high fatality rate in hospital and post-discharge remains for vulnerable groups such as newborns and malnourished children. The CHAIN Networks looks at preventable causes of death across 9 sites in Africa and South Asia, conducting clinical trials to improve treatments and guidelines, to improve outcomes.
\n \n\n \n \nMedical research must ultimately translate into improved treatments for patients. Researchers at the Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, collaborate to develop better care and improved preventive measures.
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