New research by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and the University of South Florida has found a strong link between poor nutrition and the progression of lymphatic filariasis (LF), a mosquito-borne disease.

Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is caused by parasitic worms and leads to severe swelling of the extremities, breasts, and scrotum, often resulting in disability, social stigma, and reduced quality of life.

The condition is endemic in several tropical and subtropical regions, including West Africa, where malnutrition and infectious diseases remain pressing public health challenges.

The study, published in PLOS ONE, leveraged machine learning techniques to analyse the nutritional status of 109 participants from Ghana's Ahanta West Municipality, a region known for its high burden of LF.

The results showed high rates of malnutrition (70.7%) and anaemia (84.0%), along with significant deficiencies in protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins.

Researchers identified vitamins C and K, blood pressure, folate, and age as major factors influencing LF progression.

Lead researcher Kobla Atsu Amewu and Benedicta Amaglo emphasized the urgent need for integrated health strategies, advocating for nutritional support alongside medical treatment to enhance patient outcomes.