Table 4
The most cost effective health interventions for the developing world
($25 or less per DALY saved)

Potential intervention

Type of intervention

DPT/Polio immunization

Immunization

Measles immunization

-//-

BCG immunization
(to prevent childhood TB)

Mass chemoprophylaxis

Hepatitis B immunization

-//-

Iodization of salt

-//-

Fortification of suger with vitamin A

-//-

Mass administration of anthelmintics to high risk groups

-//-

Iodine injections for pregnant women

-//-

Oral iron supplements for pregnant women

-//-

Promotion of breastfeeding

Behavior change

Smoking prevention/cessation programs

-//-

Promotion of condom use
(to prevent both excess births and STDs)

-//-

Malaria control with chemical pesticides

Environmental control

Blood donor screening for HIV in high prevalence areas

Mass screening

Treatment of measles with vitamin A

Clinical

Antibiotic treatment of acute respiratory infections

-//-

Ophtalmic ointment to prevent gonococcal infection in newborns

-//-

TB chemotherapy

-//-

Leprosy chemotherapy

-//-

Cataract removal

-//-

* excluding HIV

Source: World Bank, Disease Control Priorities in Developing Countries, 1993