Impact of Climate Change on the Spread of Malaria in Endemic Tropical Areas

Abstract

This study explores the impact of climate change on the spread of malaria in endemic tropical regions through a qualitative, literature-based analysis. Malaria remains a major public health challenge in tropical areas, where environmental factors such as temperature, precipitation, and humidity critically influence the life cycle of malaria vectors and the Plasmodium parasite. Climate change, characterized by rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, has intensified these environmental variables, potentially expanding the geographic range and seasonal duration of malaria transmission. Using a systematic review of recent peer-reviewed articles, reports, and epidemiological studies, this research synthesizes current understanding of the complex interactions between climate variables and malaria dynamics. The findings reveal that increased temperatures accelerate mosquito development and parasite replication, while changes in rainfall patterns can create new breeding sites or disrupt existing ones, leading to fluctuations in vector populations. Moreover, climate-induced shifts in ecosystems may alter human exposure risk by changing land use and migration patterns. Despite the documented associations, uncertainties remain regarding the extent and regional variability of climate change impacts due to confounding socioeconomic and healthcare factors. The study emphasizes the urgent need for integrated surveillance systems and adaptive public health strategies that incorporate climate projections to mitigate future malaria risks. Overall, this qualitative inquiry highlights the intricate and multifaceted influence of climate change on malaria epidemiology in tropical endemic zones, underscoring the critical role of interdisciplinary research and policy interventions to address emerging challenges.