ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Diseases of poverty

Diseases of poverty refer to those illnesses that are more common and severe among people who live in poor areas and have limited access to healthcare, education, and social services.

Imagine you have a lot of toys, good food, a comfortable house, and loving parents who take care of you when you get sick. Now imagine you have only a few toys, little food, a small house, and parents who cannot afford good doctors or medicine when you get sick. It's not fair, but many children around the world face these challenges every day.

In poor areas, people often do not have access to clean water or proper sanitation, which makes it easier for germs and parasites to spread. They may also live in crowded conditions that facilitate the transmission of diseases.

Some examples of diseases of poverty include malaria, tuberculosis, diarrheal diseases, and respiratory infections. These can cause high fevers, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea, making it difficult for children to go to school or parents to work. If left untreated, these diseases can be severe and even deadly.

However, there are many organizations and programs working to improve healthcare, education, and living conditions in poor areas. By providing access to clean water, nutritious food, and healthcare, we can help prevent and treat diseases of poverty and give children and families a better chance at a healthy and happy life.