This is of great public health concern, as this type of cancer is associated with malaria infections that are very common in the tropical region. Research has shown that the cancer is triggered by a virus called Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), which is associated with several viral illnesses and cancers. Kitungulu’s research shows that children who are continuously exposed to malaria are more likely to suffer Burkitt cancer due to reduced immunity.
“Our government needs to upscale capacity for malaria control and treatment, as well as monitoring of the EBV viral infection, especially in children living in malaria endemic regions such as western Kenya” said Kitungulu.