Understanding Public Health in Africa: Issues and Cases

This innovative textbook, written by an author based in Zambia, provides an invaluable perspective on the key public health issues that Africa is facing today.

In addition to outlining the fundamental principles of public health, the book highlights the specific challenges faced in low-resource settings across the continent. It is split into four parts. Part I covers the core concepts of public health, including the different determinants that affect public health, as well as how health systems are organized. Part II looks at environmental factors such as air pollution, water sanitation, and food and nutrition, while Part III focuses on issues around infectious and non-communicable diseases, including chapters on tuberculosis, malaria, HIV/AIDS, maternal health, and mental health. Part IV covers emerging issues affecting public health such as climate change and the effects of mining in the region.

With each chapter providing examples and case studies to illustrate the issues, success stories, and innovative approaches being taken in countries such as Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, and Nigeria, this unique book will fascinate students of Public Health, Global Health, African Studies, and beyond.

David Mulenga is an academic and public health professional currently serving as a Senior Lecturer at the Copperbelt University (CBU) Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Ndola Zambia. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he holds the position of Head of Public Health Department at the University. He has extensive experience in primary health care, research and was a visiting Fulbright Scholar at Oregon State University (USA) and a Research Fellow at University of Oulu (Finland).