Carter Center’s Guinea Worm Eradication: A 30-Year Journey to Eliminate a Painful Disease and Inspire the World

In 2006, I had the opportunity to speak with former President Jimmy Carter about his ongoing efforts to eradicate Guinea worm, a parasitic disease that causes painful lesions on the skin. Carter, now 99 years old, was preparing for a journey to Africa to continue his work in this area.

I was struck by Carter’s dedication at his age and expressed my admiration for his efforts. To my surprise, Carter admitted that he didn’t mind hearing it. He has every right to be proud of his accomplishments. When the Carter Center started its Guinea worm eradication program in 1986, the disease was widespread in 21 countries, affecting 3.5 million people annually. Today, thanks to his leadership and decades of hard work, there are only 14 reported cases worldwide.

The Carter Center’s efforts have focused on public education, teaching people in affected countries to filter drinking water and prevent infected individuals from contaminating water sources. If successful, Guinea worm will become only the second human disease, after smallpox, to be eradicated. Carter is determined to see this goal achieved and is working tirelessly towards it even at his age.

As the oldest living former U.S. President, Carter’s dedication to eliminating Guinea worm is truly inspirational. His humility and commitment to this cause serve as a reminder of the impact one person can have on the world.

Carter Center’s Guinea worm eradication program has been an incredible success story so far with tremendous results achieved over the years through their efforts towards public education and community mobilization programs that teach people how to filter water and prevent infection transmission.