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Professor Kishor Wasan

The 20 Neglected Tropical Diseases

The 20 neglected tropical diseases are some of the most common health issues in the world, and they often go unnoticed. They can be grouped into three categories: those that are infectious, those that are largely preventable, and those that are caused by a combination of factors. Each class has its own set of diseases and risks, and each type of disease has its treatment.


Elephantiasis is a tropical disease that is commonly caused by the infection of the human lymphatic system. Various factors, including mosquitoes, worms, and other parasites, can cause this infection. It is usually accompanied by fever and pain in the affected parts.


People who suffer from elephantiasis are at risk of developing secondary infections. They may also have problems working and caring for their families. Some people with the disease also develop anxiety or depression.


The World Health Organization (WHO) defines neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) as a group of infectious diseases that affect the world's poorest populations, including viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases. These diseases have a range of geographic overlaps, and their cumulative impact can be catastrophic.


Some of the more common diseases are helminthiasis, schistosomiasis, and onchocerciasis. Helminthiasis is caused by a nematode that transmits pathogens such as malaria. It causes chronic intestinal infection.


Leishmaniasis is an obligate intra-macrophage protozoa parasite that is endemic in tropical regions. It is a very dangerous disease that can cause death. The World Health Organisation estimates that 1.3 million people contract leishmaniasis each year.


It also contributes to the global burden of neglected tropical diseases. There are many different types of leishmaniasis. Some of them are cutaneous, tegumentary, visceral, and mucocutaneous.


The larvae of the schistosome species cause the infection. These worms live in the human host's blood vessels and intestines. They divide into cercariae and penetrate the skin of their human host.


Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, is a parasitic disease that causes serious health problems. It affects millions of people in Asia, Africa, and worldwide. Infection occurs when a person comes into contacts with contaminated water, such as bathing, swimming, washing clothes, or fishing.


Preventive chemotherapy is a cost-effective and efficient intervention that can interrupt the transmission of certain target infections. It is similar to an immunization campaign in that it targets the risk population and interrupts the spread of disease.


This intervention controls some of the world's most commonly neglected tropical diseases. These diseases are caused by parasites or viruses and can debilitate people.


There are over 1 billion people affected by NTDs worldwide. They face poverty, inadequate sanitation, and proximity to infectious vectors. In addition, the diseases can cause social stigma, disfigurement, and impaired economic productivity.


Foodborne trematode infections are among the 20 neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) considered by the World Health Organization to be the most significant global public health threats. They are a group of viral and bacterial infections that primarily affect the poor and often have a stigmatizing effect.


The 20 NTDs include a range of diseases that have diverse epidemiological, clinical, and pathological characteristics. Some have been targeted for elimination, such as African human trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease, dengue fever, and rabies. However, many are still prevalent.


Snakebite is a neglected tropical disease caused by the bite of venomous snakes. The condition is particularly severe and causes several deaths and permanent disabilities. These are especially significant for people living in poor, rural areas. However, snakebite is not infectious and cannot spread rapidly.


The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the need to catalyze global action against snakebites. It has placed the disease on the organization's list of neglected tropical diseases.

Mycobacterium ulcerans is an environmental pathogen that causes various infections in humans, including Bairnsdale and Daintree ulcers. It is classified as a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization. This infection can cause permanent disability if left untreated. The condition is also associated with several outbreaks in African countries.


Most people affected by BU are children, although adults are also at high risk. An estimated 75% of patients are younger than 15 years of age. However, the disease is rarely fatal. Some cases are complicated by osteomyelitis, which is a bone infection. Moreover, patients with HIV are at increased risk.


Leprosy, a disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, is one of the 20 neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, and toxins, characterize these diseases. They are mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions, and their effects often devastate the individuals and communities affected.


Leprosy is an infectious disease that affects the skin and peripheral nerves. It is primarily spread through droplets from the mouth and nose. Although the disease is curable, untreated leprosy can lead to permanent damage and impairment. Some symptoms are redness or pain on the skin, muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and deformities.

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