0
0
The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized that the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) must prioritize affected communities and address the growing impact of climate change. Saima Wazed, WHO’s Regional Director for South-East Asia, made this statement ahead of World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day, observed annually on January 30.
The theme for World NTD Day 2025 is “Unite. Act. Eliminate.” Highlighting the significance of this theme, Wazed stated, “Unite. Act. Eliminate. These three words embody our shared commitment to combating NTDs, a cause that impacts over 1.5 billion people worldwide, predominantly among the most vulnerable populations.”
She underscored that this day serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the global commitment to a healthier, more equitable future. “Let us unite to advocate for change, act to deliver impactful interventions, and eliminate the burden of NTDs in our region and beyond,” Wazed added.
Understanding Neglected Tropical Diseases
NTDs are a group of diverse conditions caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins. These diseases often lead to severe health, social, and economic consequences. They are termed ‘neglected’ because they receive limited attention in the global health agenda and are often linked to stigma and social exclusion.
“In the South-East Asia Region, 16 NTDs remain endemic, with at least one disease present in each of the 11 Member States,” Wazed noted. However, she acknowledged the significant progress made in eliminating NTDs over the past decade.
Progress and Ongoing Challenges
Over the years, seven Member States have successfully eliminated at least one neglected tropical disease. In 2023 alone, more than 860 million people benefited from mass drug administration (MDA) and targeted interventions. MDA is a public health strategy where all individuals in a designated area receive treatment, irrespective of their disease status.
Despite this progress, challenges persist. Wazed cited inadequate health system capacity, funding gaps, disparities in healthcare access, social determinants of health, lack of tools and innovation, geopolitical instability, and climate change as key obstacles. These factors leave 833 million people in the region still in need of NTD interventions.
Community Empowerment and Climate Adaptation
To overcome these challenges, Wazed stressed the need to empower communities affected by NTDs, ensuring systemic inequalities are addressed so that no one is left behind. “Our fight against NTDs must center on empowering affected communities and adapting to the realities of climate change,” she asserted.
She called for person-centered approaches, community leadership, and the integration of a One Health approach. This holistic approach links human, animal, and environmental health to build resilience against the growing impact of climate change on vector-borne diseases.
As the world marks World NTD Day, global health leaders continue to push for stronger policies and greater awareness to eliminate NTDs, striving for a future where these diseases no longer pose a threat to vulnerable communities.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information provided by WHO and related sources. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for specific health concerns.
