(Producer) Guinea worm is a water-borne parasite which lodges in the lower extremities of the human body, matures, and then burrows out through the skin. Once prevalent throughout Asia, Africa, and the Americas, 100 million people in India, Pakistan, and western Africa are still at high risk of suffering this disease. The film introduces Dr. Donald Hopkins, who is leading the fight to eradicate this endemic, and visits Nigeria, Benin, and Ghana--three of the nations with the greatest incidences of guinea worm--and examines steps being taken to fight this affliction. From the strategic planning level involving the World Health Organization, Global 2000, and such well known individuals as former President Jimmy Carter; to governments' involvement in implementing workable plans for their countries; to the actual field doctors and villagers who are the "last battleground," this film is a case study of a major health initiative at work in the third world. As it demonstrates how obstacles such as illiteracy and inadequate funding are being confronted, it makes the case for improving health care in underdeveloped nations.
OCLC:
(OCoLC)33075754
Locations:
OVUX522 -- University of Iowa Libraries (Iowa City)
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.