2025 World Malaria Day: Advancing health equity through diagnostics –The crucial role of MLSs

Every year, the global health community observes World Malaria Day to commemorate achievements, inspire action, and reaffirm commitment to defeating malaria—one of the world’s oldest and deadliest diseases. This year’s theme, “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world,” underscores a critical truth: malaria is both preventable and treatable, yet it continues to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

At the center of the malaria response, though often behind the scenes, are Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS)—the unsung heroes whose diagnostic expertise is vital to every phase of malaria control and eventual elimination. West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana organised the event to commemorate the 2025 World Malaria Day at Chorkor, Accra-Ghana

The vital role of Medical Laboratory Scientists

Medical Laboratory Scientists form the diagnostic backbone of malaria response strategies. From confirming initial cases to guiding treatment decisions, their work is essential for accurate diagnosis and real-time surveillance.

Speaking to Dr. Gloria Amegatcher, the Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists, she emphasized that “accurate and timely diagnosis is key to saving lives.” Microscopy, the gold standard in malaria detection, enables identification of Plasmodium species and quantification of parasitemia. This precision guides appropriate treatment, especially in severe cases.

Dr. Amegatcher also highlighted the importance of Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) in resource-limited settings, where laboratory infrastructure may be sparse. Additionally, she noted the growing importance of molecular diagnostics, such as PCR and LAMP, which can detect low-level infections, confirm treatment failures, and track drug-resistant strains—a rising concern in malaria-endemic zones.

MLS contribution towards the fight against Malaria

Beyond diagnostics, Medical Laboratory Scientists play a critical role in malaria surveillance and research. They collect and analyze patient samples, report data, and contribute to national and global tracking systems. This information is essential for identifying outbreak hotspots, monitoring trends, and evaluating the impact of control interventions.

Their role extends into cutting-edge research, from exploring host immune responses to evaluating new diagnostic technologies. MLSs are pivotal in monitoring antimalarial drug resistance, conducting vaccine efficacy studies, and developing portable diagnostic tools tailored for field use in remote communities.

Furthermore, MLSs provide training and mentorship to frontline healthcare workers in malaria diagnostics and quality assurance, helping ensure reliable results in even the most underserved health posts. Their commitment to capacity building strengthens the health system’s response at all levels.

A call to action

This World Malaria Day, we must recognize the central role that Medical Laboratory Scientists play in combating malaria. Investing in their education, equipping diagnostic laboratories, and embedding diagnostics into national malaria strategies isn’t optional—it’s essential.

As we strive toward malaria elimination, it’s clear: without accurate testing, timely treatment, and vigilant tracking, progress stalls. MLSs are not just technical staff—they are lifesavers, educators, and changemakers on the diagnostic frontlines.

Together, let’s commit to a future where no child dies of a mosquito bite. Let’s test, treat, track—and triumph over malaria.