Fact Check: Malaria caused around 8 million deaths globally from 2001 to 2021.

Fact Check: "Malaria caused around 8 million deaths globally from 2001 to 2021."

What We Know

The claim that malaria caused around 8 million deaths globally from 2001 to 2021 is not supported by the most recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the World Malaria Report 2024, there were approximately 597,000 malaria deaths worldwide in 2023. This figure is consistent with the trend observed in previous years, indicating that the total number of deaths due to malaria over the two decades in question is significantly lower than 8 million.

The WHO reports that in 2023, there were an estimated 263 million cases of malaria globally, with the African Region accounting for 94% of these cases and 95% of deaths. Children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable, representing about 76% of all malaria deaths in that region (WHO).

Analysis

The assertion that malaria caused around 8 million deaths from 2001 to 2021 appears to be an overestimation. If we consider the WHO's reported figures, the average annual death toll from malaria over the last two decades has been significantly lower than 400,000 deaths per year. For instance, the total number of malaria deaths reported in 2023 was 597,000, which is in line with the figures from previous years, suggesting a consistent pattern rather than a sudden spike that would lead to an 8 million total.

To further evaluate the reliability of the sources, the WHO is a reputable organization with a long history of providing accurate health data. Its reports are based on extensive research and data collection from member countries, making them a credible source for information on global health issues, including malaria (WHO, WHO).

In contrast, the claim lacks a cited source or data to substantiate the figure of 8 million deaths, raising questions about its validity. Without a credible source to back this claim, it cannot be considered accurate.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that malaria caused around 8 million deaths globally from 2001 to 2021 is false. The available data from the WHO indicates that the total number of malaria deaths over this period is significantly lower than the claim suggests. The most recent statistics show a consistent annual death toll that does not support the assertion of 8 million deaths.