What are neglected tropical diseases?1
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of diseases that affect more than 1 billion people.1 NTDs are a diverse group of 20 conditions that are widespread in the world’s poorest regions, where water safety, sanitation and access to healthcare are substandard. Caused primarily by pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and parasitic worms, NTDs are considered 'neglected' because they are almost absent from the global health agenda and are plagued by a lack of resources and funding. These conditions receive little funding and are associated with stigma or social exclusion.
Founded to spread awareness and address NTDs, World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day on 30 January is an opportunity to help the world’s population that is infected.2 The suffering caused by these diseases can have a ripple effect, potentially causing blindness, disability or disfigurement, taking away not only the person’s health but also the chance of staying in school, earning a living or being accepted by their family or community. The impact costs developing nations billions every year.3
Awareness of NTDs in recent years has led to greater investment and commitment to eradicating these diseases. Across the globe, 47 countries have eliminated at least one NTD, and NTD programmes performed better in 2022 than in 2021.2 The goal is applying simple, costeffective interventions that can prevent, control and eradicate these diseases. By learning more, spreading the word, and supporting NTD education efforts, we can all be a part of preventing cycles of suffering and poverty, and improving lives around the world.
Source:
1 - https://www.who.int/srilanka/news/detail/30-01-2023-title-world-neglected-tropical-disease-day
2 - https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-ntd-day/2024
3 - https://worldntdday.org/