Schistosomiasis is Africa's second most common parasitic disease. Less than 20 years ago, over 200 million were infected. In many high-risk areas the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative (SCI) has been helping to tackle the disease by offering treatments to millions of children. This book tells the story of a man, Alan Fenwick, who founded the SCI to control the worms and snails and so improve the lives of many burdened with the disease as well as reducing the numbers infected. Over this period SCI and the Ministries of Health and Education in 16 countries delivered over 220 million treatments. Treatment coverage of up to 75% has been achieved. Widely recognised as a cost-effective and successful intervention, SCI's knock-on effects include improving overall physical health, school attendance and future prospects for millions of people. The authors explore the work and experiences involved in forming, establishing and managing a health intervention system such as the SCI, while describing important lessons for anyone looking to replicate the success. This book covers: - Challenges faced and how the SCI overcame them to achieve its success; - Raising funds to deliver donated medicines; - Development of innovative partnerships; - Cultivation of working relationships and implementation across Africa; - A new model for other Neglected Tropical Disease programmes (NTDs); - Aspects of Alan's life in Africa told with memorable and often humorous anecdotes. A Tale of a Man, a Worm and a Snail is an essential resource for researchers, policymakers, health professionals and students of NTD control. The book is an enlightening, informative and enjoyable read for anyone interested in global health.

Many people in developing countries lack access to health technologies, even basic ones. Why do these problems in access persist? What can be done to improve access to good health technologies, especially for poor people in poor countries?

This book answers those questions by developing a comprehensive analytical framework for access and examining six case studies to explain why some health technologies achieved more access than others. The technologies include praziquantel (for the treatment of schistosomiasis), hepatitis B vaccine, malaria rapid diagnostic tests, vaccine vial monitors for temperature exposure, the Norplant implant contraceptive, and female condoms. Based on research studies commissioned by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to better understand the development, adoption, and uptake of health technologies in poor countries, the book concludes with specific lessons on strategies to improve access. These lessons will be of keen interest to students of health and development, public health professionals, and health technology developers all who seek to improve access to health technologies in poor countries.