Nutrient enrichment linked to increase in cases of schistosomiasis

Scientists have provided a rather grim prognosis for global health: the recent increase in nutrient enrichment due to human activities is increasing several varieties of infectious diseases in humans and wildlife.

Scientists have provided a rather grim prognosis for global health: the recent increase in nutrient enrichment due to human activities, such as nitrogen pollution through fossil fuel combustion, is likely contributing to several varieties of infectious diseases in humans and wildlife.

Lead author Pieter Johnson from the University of Colorado and colleagues referenced several studies showing the links—both direct and indirect—between nutrient enrichment and the emergence and resurgence of human and wildlife illnesses, such as limb malformations in amphibians and malaria, West Nile virus and schistosomiasis in humans.

Tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia and South America are especially at risk.

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