Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions on genetically modified mosquitoes: Case for sterile mosquito release in Grenada

Ghodasara, Anjali; Deliso, Marisa; Bidaisee, Satesh

doi:10.5430/jer.v3n1p57

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 5 publications

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“…While previous studies have reported a high level of knowledge about malaria symptoms, prevention, and treatment among different stakeholder groups across Africa [39][40][41][42], this study revealed some gaps in understanding of the current malaria situation, especially among key decision makers in the continent. Nearly half of the survey respondents in this study could not indicate reasonable estimates of the malaria burden in their countries.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 62%

Perspectives of African Stakeholders on Gene Drives for Malaria Control and Elimination: A Multi-Country Survey

Finda,

Juma,

Kahamba

et al. 2023

Preprint

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Background Gene drive modified mosquitoes (GDMMs) have the potential to address Africa's persistent malaria problem but are still in early stages of development and testing. Continuous engagement of African stakeholders is crucial for successful research and implementation of these technologies. The aim of this multi-country study was therefore to explore the insights and recommendations of key stakeholders across Africa on the potential of GDMMs for malaria control and elimination in the continent. Methods A concurrent mixed-methods study design was used; involving a structured survey administered to 180 stakeholders in 25 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, followed by 18 in-depth discussions with selected groups and individuals. Stakeholders were drawn from academia, research and regulatory institutions, government ministries of health and environment, media and advocacy groups. Thematic content analysis was used to identify key topics from the in-depth discussions, and descriptive analysis was done to summarize information from the survey data. Results Despite high levels of awareness of GDMMs among the stakeholders (76.7%), there was a relatively low-level of understanding of their potential applications for malaria control (28.3%). The majority of respondents (92.9%) also expressed support for field trials or implementation of GDMMs in their respective countries. When more information about GDMMs was provided to the stakeholders, they readily discussed their insights and concerns, and offered several recommendations to ensure successful research and implementation of the technology. These included: i) increasing relevant technical expertise within Africa, ii) generating local evidence on safety, applicability, and effectiveness of GDMMs, and iii) developing country-specific regulations for safe and effective governance of GDMMs. This study also identified significant misconceptions regarding the phase of GDMM testing in Africa, as numerous participants incorrectly asserted that gene drive mosquitoes were already present in Africa, either within laboratories or released into the field. Conclusion Incorporating views and recommendations of African stakeholders in the ongoing research and development of GDMMs is crucial for instilling stakeholder confidence on their potential application. These findings will enable improved planning for GDMMs in Africa as well as improved target product profiles for the technologies to maximize their potential for solving Africa’s enduring malaria challenge.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 62%

Perspectives of African Stakeholders on Gene Drives for Malaria Control and Elimination: A Multi-Country Survey

Finda,

Juma,

Kahamba

et al. 2023

Preprint

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

Perspectives of African stakeholders on gene drives for malaria control and elimination: a multi-country survey

Finda,

Juma,

Kahamba

et al. 2023

Malar J

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Background Gene drive modified mosquitoes (GDMMs) have the potential to address Africa’s persistent malaria problem, but are still in early stages of development and testing. Continuous engagement of African stakeholders is crucial for successful evaluation and implementation of these technologies. The aim of this multi-country study was, therefore, to explore the insights and recommendations of key stakeholders across Africa on the potential of GDMMs for malaria control and elimination in the continent. Methods A concurrent mixed-methods study design was used, involving a structured survey administered to 180 stakeholders in 25 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, followed by 18 in-depth discussions with selected groups and individuals. Stakeholders were drawn from academia, research and regulatory institutions, government ministries of health and environment, media and advocacy groups. Thematic content analysis was used to identify key topics from the in-depth discussions, and descriptive analysis was done to summarize information from the survey data. Results Despite high levels of awareness of GDMMs among the stakeholders (76.7%), there was a relatively low-level of understanding of their key attributes and potential for malaria control (28.3%). When more information about GDMMs was provided to the stakeholders, they readily discussed their insights and concerns, and offered several recommendations to ensure successful research and implementation of the technology. These included: (i) increasing relevant technical expertise within Africa, (ii) generating local evidence on safety, applicability, and effectiveness of GDMMs, and (iii) developing country-specific regulations for safe and effective governance of GDMMs. A majority of the respondents (92.9%) stated that they would support field trials or implementation of GDMMs in their respective countries. This study also identified significant misconceptions regarding the phase of GDMM testing in Africa, as several participants incorrectly asserted that GDMMs were already present in Africa, either within laboratories or released into the field. Conclusion Incorporating views and recommendations of African stakeholders in the ongoing research and development of GDMMs is crucial for instilling stakeholder confidence on their potential application. These findings will enable improved planning for GDMMs in Africa as well as improved target product profiles for the technologies to maximize their potential for solving Africa’s enduring malaria challenge.

show abstract

Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions on genetically modified mosquitoes: Case for sterile mosquito release in Grenada

Cited by 2 publications

References 5 publications

Perspectives of African Stakeholders on Gene Drives for Malaria Control and Elimination: A Multi-Country Survey

Perspectives of African Stakeholders on Gene Drives for Malaria Control and Elimination: A Multi-Country Survey

Perspectives of African stakeholders on gene drives for malaria control and elimination: a multi-country survey

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