(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)

(JUNE-2024)

World Health Organization (WHO) releases progress report on Neglected Tropical Diseases.

In 2022 alone, an estimated 1.62 billion people required intervention sagainst these diseases. Although this reflects a 26% decrease from 2010, still it highlights the immense scale of the problem, with entire populations facing the threat of NTDs.
As of December 2023, a total of 50 countries have successfully eliminated at least one NTD, marking the half way point towards the 2030 target of 100 countries.
The report further reveals a concerning trend - a 22% increase in reported deaths from vector- borne NTDs compared to 2016.
In 2022, approx. 848 million people received treatment for at least one NTD through preventive chemotherapy interventions.
This rise underscores the urgency of addressing these diseases, particularly those transmitted by insects like mosquitoes.

National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP): This program focuses on mass drug administration, bed net distribution, and vector control measures to prevent diseases like lymphatic filariasis, malaria, dengue, and kala-azar.
National Health Mission (NHM): The NHM aims to provide accessible, affordable healthcare to all, including those affected by NTDs.
Kala-azar elimination Programme: Launched in 1990-91, this program aimed to eliminate kala-azar by 2023, although the WHO NTD RoadMap target is 2030.
Lymphatic Filarias is Elimination Programme: India actively participates in the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF).
National Deworming Day (NDD): Launched in 2015, this nationwide program targets reducing soil-transmitted helminthias is prevalence in children.