Limbic 365Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of debilitating diseases that affect over a billion people worldwide, primarily in low-income countries. These diseases affect the most vulnerable populations and cause significant suffering and disability. World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day is observed annually on January 30th to raise awareness about these diseases, their impact on people’s lives, and the need for action to eliminate them. In this article, we will discuss the importance of this day and answer some frequently asked questions about NTDs.
What are Neglected Tropical Diseases?
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of 20 debilitating diseases that affect more than a billion people worldwide, primarily in low-income countries. These diseases include dengue fever, leprosy, river blindness, lymphatic filariasis, trachoma, and others. They are called “neglected” because they affect the poorest and most marginalized communities and receive less attention and funding than other diseases.
What is World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day?
World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day is observed annually on January 30th to raise awareness about NTDs and their impact on people’s lives. The day was first observed in 2020 and aims to promote a global movement to eliminate NTDs. The day provides an opportunity to raise awareness among policymakers, donors, and the public about the need to prioritize NTDs and invest in research, prevention, and treatment.
Why is World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day important?
World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day is essential because it raises awareness about NTDs, their impact on people’s lives, and the need for action to eliminate them. NTDs affect the poorest and most marginalized communities, perpetuating a cycle of poverty, ill-health, and limited opportunities. By raising awareness, we can increase political commitment and mobilize resources to eliminate these diseases.
What is being done to eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set ambitious targets to eliminate 10 of the most common NTDs by 2030. To achieve these targets, WHO and its partners are implementing comprehensive strategies that include mass drug administration, improved access to water, sanitation, and hygiene, vector control, and innovative tools and technologies. Countries and communities are also taking action to eliminate NTDs, and progress has been made in reducing the burden of these diseases.
FAQs about Neglected Tropical Diseases
Q: Who is at risk of Neglected Tropical Diseases?
A: Neglected Tropical Diseases primarily affect the poorest and most marginalized communities in low-income countries, where access to healthcare and basic services is limited.
Q: Can Neglected Tropical Diseases be prevented?
A: Yes, Neglected Tropical Diseases can be prevented through measures such as mass drug administration, improved access to water, sanitation, and hygiene, and vector control.
Q: Are Neglected Tropical Diseases treatable?
A: Yes, Neglected Tropical Diseases are treatable, and treatment is often simple and inexpensive. However, many people affected by NTDs do not have access to the necessary treatments.
World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the impact of Neglected Tropical Diseases on people’s lives and the need to take action to eliminate them. Neglected Tropical Diseases perpetuate a cycle of poverty and ill-health, affecting the poorest and most marginalized communities. By investing in research, prevention, and treatment, we can eliminate NTDs and improve the lives of millions of people worldwide.
Reference
- World Health Organization. Neglected Tropical Diseases
- World Health Organization. World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day
- Uniting to Combat Neglected Tropical Diseases. About Neglected Tropical Diseases. https://unitingtocombatntds.org/about-ntds/ (accessed April 23, 2023).
- World Health Organization. Neglected Tropical Diseases Fact Sheet
Prof Dr Subhagata Choudhury
