Review supports G6PD testing for vivax care
A review of seven modelling studies suggests G6PD testing before vivax relapse treatment can improve safety and offer value for money.
A review published in Malaria Journal on 5 November 2026 examines the cost-effectiveness of near-patient G6PD testing before treatment to prevent Plasmodium vivax relapses.
Primaquine and tafenoquine target dormant liver-stage parasites, but can cause severe haemolysis in people with G6PD deficiency. Testing helps guide safer prescribing.
Across seven modelling studies, 14 of 16 comparisons found screening cost-effective compared with radical cure without screening. These are economic models, not a new clinical trial. Findings depend on local conditions and cannot establish the cost-effectiveness of testing in East Sumba.
For remote care, the practical question is how to make appropriate testing available alongside trained staff, quality assurance, treatment and follow-up. The review does not mean that Fair Future has introduced G6PD testing.
