Neglected Tropical Diseases

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of parasitic and bacterial infections that affect more than 1.7 billion people worldwide, primarily in low-income and middle-income countries. NTDs are largely preventable and treatable, yet they continue to cause significant suffering and morbidity around the world. The most common NTDs include dengue, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis (river blindness), schistosomiasis (snail fever), and trachoma. These diseases often go unnoticed and untreated due to limited access to healthcare services, lack of education, and poverty. NTDs have a significant impact on global public health, with debilitating symptoms such as disfigurement, impaired cognitive development, and blindness. The economic burden of NTDs extends beyond just healthcare costs, as they impact productivity through lost income and decreased quality of life. Efforts to control and eliminate NTDs have been ongoing for decades, with notable progress in reducing the burden of some diseases. However, sustained investment in prevention and treatment is necessary to continue to make meaningful gains in global health. The International Journal of Global Health aims to highlight research and innovations in the prevention and treatment of NTDs. By leveraging new technologies and partnerships, we can work towards eliminating the impact of NTDs on human health and well-being.