Overview
The World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day is observed on 30 January each year. The first-ever World NTD Day was celebrated on 30 January 2020. This international day is an opportunity to re-energize the momentum to end the suffering from these 20 diseases that are caused by a variety of pathogens including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi and toxins [Public Health Update]
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are widespread in the world’s poorest regions, where water safety, sanitation and access to health care are substandard. NTDs affect over 1 billion people globally and are caused mostly by a variety of pathogens including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins.
The Road map for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) 2021–2030
Theme for World NTD Day 2023: Act now. Act together. Invest in neglected tropical diseases
1. Act now, Act together to end NTDs
2023: the year to shine a spotlight on NTDs and the suffering they cause, and to call for comprehensive and universal care for those affected by them. It is our collective responsibility to confront inequalities and put an end to these diseases that are entirely preventable.
2. Keep NTD services accessible through innovation
Access to medicines, diagnostics, and essential technologies for NTDs should be sustained and expanded, including through donations and research & development. Countries and NTD programmes must use innovations that emerged before and during the COVID-19 pandemic to address disruptions and delays caused to the delivery of services.
3. Strengthen NTD integration, cross-sector collaborations and mainstreaming, for stronger country ownership and accountability
The WHO NTD road map 2021-2030 focuses on the value of integrating NTD programmes, establishing links with other sectors (education, nutrition, WASH, animal & environmental health), mainstreaming NTDs within health systems and primary health care services, and promoting country ownership and accountability.
4. Invest sustainably in NTDs for the best returns
With increased investment, action and collaboration, countries can beat NTDs. NTD programmes are cost-effective interventions and, with the added benefit of drug donations by pharmaceutical companies, the value for money and returns on investment are highly favourable.
Investment in NTDs is also an investment in reducing poverty, and in allowing people and their families to lead healthier, more economically productive lives. Sustainable funding is key to relieving the burden of NTDs.
5. Stay committed to the deliver on the NTD road map 2021-2030
Despite the global COVID-19 pandemic, progress has been achieved during the two years since the publication of the 2021-2030 road map. Countries must continue their commitments to delivering quality NTD services to affected populations.
Source of info: WHO and NTD Day website
Recommended readings
- Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs)
- The first-ever World NTD Day
- World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day 2021
- The Road map for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) 2021–2030
