Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a new road map for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The organization put forth ambitious targets and innovative approaches to tackle 20 diseases which affect more than a billion people residing in regions that are poorly equipped with healthcare and sanitation, and especially the poor. The diseases are common in areas where there is insufficient access to quality health services, clean water and sanitation.

Targets include the eradication of dracunculiasis (guinea worm) and yaws and a 90% reduction in the need for treatment for NTDs by 2030; elimination of at least one NTD in at least 100 countries; eradication of two diseases - dracunculiasis and yaws; and 75% reduction in the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) related to NTD. The strategy aims to address critical gaps across multiple diseases by integrating and mainstreaming actions within national health systems and by adopting a people-centric approach.

It was also stated that challenges must be overcome – such as, climate change, conflict, emerging zoonotic and environmental health threats, as well as continued inequalities in access to healthcare services, adequate housing, safe water and sanitation.

Source: who.int. Published 2021 Jan. Accessed February 24, 2021.