Global status of DDT.

The World Health Organization has recommended dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) for indoor residual spraying to control malaria when suitable alternatives are not available, and DDT is currently used for this purpose in approximately 14 countries, van den Berg (p. 1656) reviews the use of DDT and current evidence concerning its benefits and risks in relation to available alternatives. He argues that a comprehensive cost assessment of DDT versus its alternatives is needed that takes unintended effects on human health, the environment, and international trade into account. He also argues that integrated vector management can provide a viable framework for developing and implementing effective and sustainable alternatives to DDT.