Neglected Tropical Diseases
We act in forgotten places because health is a right.
Find out moreFive things you must know about Neglected Tropical Diseases:
Five things you must know about Neglected Tropical Diseases:
Five things you must know about Neglected Tropical Diseases:
Five things you must know about Neglected Tropical Diseases:
Five things you must know about Neglected Tropical Diseases:
NTDs are treatable but, as neglected diseases, they are not seen as a priority.
Anesvad Foundation helps make the control and elimination of these neglected diseases a possibility.
What are Neglected Tropical Diseases?
Impoverished populations in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa are affected by a set of infectious diseases known as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
These diseases are not classified as neglected because they are untreatable, or because we do not know what actions to take to prevent them, but rather because they are overlooked. Factors such as poverty, exclusion, limited accessibility, etc., mean that the required treatment is not received.
Anesvad Foundation works in line with WHO guidelines, promoting the integration of control measures in endemic areas and strengthening intersectoral interventions. This enables us to better control transmission via pathogens such as parasites, bacteria, fungi, toxins and viruses.
What are Skin-Related Neglected Tropical Diseases?
The main Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) typically cause skin alterations, leaving marks on those infected as a lifelong reminder of the disease.
In countries such as Togo, Ghana, Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, having these marks, despite the fact that in many cases they are a sign of recovery, can lead to isolation and stigmatisation among the population. The diseases can lead to deformities, disabilities, mobility difficulties and other problems which may require surgery, or which may even end up being fatal if not treated in time.
Spotting cutaneous manifestations and early diagnosis and treatment is crucial if patients are to be fully cured and to avoid further disruption to internal organs or other systems.
Moreover, these marks and diseases are preventable at source because their transmission is influenced by, among other factors, limited access to public health services and safe water, sanitation and hygiene in affected communities. However, because they are neglected diseases, affecting neglected areas, communities, lives, etc., they are not treated as a priority when it comes to global health programmes and funding.
More than one billion people in 149 countries are affected by one of the 20 existing NTDs. This has led the World Health Organisation (WHO) to develop a roadmap which commits to reducing their incidence by 90% by 2030.
Buruli ulcer
- This debilitating disease is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterum ulcerans.
- Although its forms of transmission are unknown, it is related to stagnant and unsafe water.
- It is present in 33 tropical-climate countries and is mostly concentrated in Western and Central Africa.
- Most patients are children from Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Treatment and recovery require several weeks of medication and treating wounds. In severe cases, it requires skin grafting and surgery.
- Treating it with antibiotics is cheap and effective, but if it is not treated in time it can lead to problems of morbidity, stigma and disability.
Leprosy
- Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae.
- It is transmitted by prolonged contact with people who suffer from it.
- If not treated in time, it can cause progressive and permanent skin lesions, affect the nerves, the mucosa of the respiratory tract, and eyes.
- It can be cured through multi-drug therapy and once the treatment is under way, the people affected by leprosy no longer transmit it.
- The stigma associated with leprosy in developing countries remains one of the biggest hindrances to its detection and treatment.
Yaws
- This is an infectious and disfiguring disease caused by bacteria similar to the bacteria which causes syphilis.
- It is transmitted by direct contact, via small lesions, with an infected person.
- Between 75% and 80% of patients are children under 15. It affects the skin, bones and cartilage, causing disability if not treated in time.
- It can be cured with one oral dose of azithromycin, an antibiotic found in any chemist and costing no more than 4.50 euros.
- But for insufficient resources, it could be eradicated.
Lymphatic filariasis
- This is transmitted in parasites called nematodes (roundworms) carried by mosquitos.
- Currently, this disease is endemic in 73 countries.
- Filarial worms are reproduced in the lymphatic system and generate larvae that circulates around the blood of the infected person.
- It can cause hypertrophy in extremities, causing pain, serious disability and social stigma.
- Preventive chemotherapy is the most effective treatment to stop its spread.
Dracunculosis
- Also known as Guinea worm disease.
- Caused by a parasite, it is spread by means of stagnant water with infected fleas.
- Symptoms include painful blisters on the skin, fever and joint pain. It is a debilitating disease which can cause long-term disability.
- It is on the verge of eradication: 27 human cases were reported in 2020.
- There is no vaccine to prevent the disease and no drugs to treat it, but various preventive strategies based on water sanitation and hygiene have brought the disease to this point.
Leishmaniasis
- It is transmitted to humans via bites from mosquitoes and sandflies which carry the parasite.
- There are three main forms of leishmaniasis: cutaneous, mucocutaneous and visceral.
- It can cause long-term disability and disfigurement.
- It is estimated that there are between 700,000 and 1 million new cases each year. Drugs exist for its treatment and cure, but they are sometimes difficult to use.
Mycetoma, chromoblastomycosis and other deep mycoses
- A chronic, destructive bacterial or fungal disease of the skin, subcutaneous tissues and bones.
- Symptoms include an inflammatory mass on the skin, pain, ulceration and pus discharge.
- If left untreated, it can result in amputation or disability.
- Its global burden is unknown, but it is endemic in Africa, Latin America, Asia and Europe, especially in areas with short rainy seasons and long dry seasons which favour the growth of thorny shrubs.
- Treatment is lengthy, has multiple side effects, is expensive, is not available in endemic areas and, above all, is often unsatisfactory.
Onchocerciasis
- Also known as river blindness.
- Caused by a parasite transmitted via infected black flies.
- Symptoms include disfiguring skin conditions and blindness, which may be permanent.
- 99% of cases occur in 31 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
- A 2017 study estimated that 14.6 million of those infected had skin damage and 1.15 million had suffered vision loss.
- The main strategy being applied is the mass administration of ivermectin, once a year, for a period of 10-15 years.
Scabies and other ectoparasites
- Scabies is a skin disease caused by a mite and transmitted from person to person via direct skin contact.
- Diseases associated with these parasites include pediculosis (lice infestation), tungiasis (flea infestation), and cutaneous myiasis (fly infestation).
- They can cause pain, secondary infections and other symptoms.
- Effective treatments are available, but they do not kill the larvae of the parasite.
- The number of people worldwide suffering from scabies is estimated at 200 million.
Schistosomiasis
- Also known as bilharzia.
- Caused by infection with worms and transmitted via contact with fresh water contaminated with the larvae of the parasite.
- Symptoms include itchy skin, abdominal pain and diarrhoea, and can cause long-term liver, kidney and lung damage.
- Schistosomiasis control focuses on reducing the number of cases through regular, large-scale, population-wide treatment which is effective, safe and low-cost. However, it is estimated that of the over 251.4 million people who would have needed treatment in 2021, only 75.3 million received it.
Other NTDs which are not skin-related:
- Chagas’ disease.
- Trachoma.
- Taeniasis and cysticercosis.
- Dengue and chikungunya.
- Echinococcosis.
- Trematodiasis.
- Human African trypanosomiasis.
- Snakebite poisoning.
- Rabies.
- Soil-transmitted helminthiases.
Our data from 2023
- Countries all around subsaharan Africa
- Almost 60,000 people are part of our community
- 84 operational projects
- + 25 partner organisations
- €7.7 million in direct investment
We combat Neglected Tropical Diseases
See projects
Support for the WHO in combatting NTDs in 14 countries of Sub-Saharan Africa
Since 2013, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has promoted an integrated approach to controlling, eliminating and eradicating 20 Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). However, over 1 billion people still suffer from them around the world, particularly in the most impoverished and forgotten places on the planet.
A clinical trial to reduce the treatment time for the Buruli ulcer by half
After decades combatting the Buruli ulcer, which affects thousands of people in over 33 countries, we are still unaware of its exact mode of transmission. We know it is related to environments with stagnant and unsafe water.
Ending NTDs in Gagnoa by 2023
To combat NTDs in Gagnoa, we work in collaboration with the Ivorian Ministry of Health via their National Programmes to fight against leprosy and the Buruli ulcer.
Strengthening the African network of laboratories for Buruli ulcer research
There are currently no unified protocols for detecting Buruli ulcer. Although the WHO sets guidelines for the control of NTDs, many laboratories in Africa do not have standardised protocols for sample collection and subsequent screening and diagnosis of these diseases.
Simultaneous diagnosis of five skin-related neglected tropical diseases (skin NTDs)
Through this initiative, we are contributing to strengthening public health systems, from small aid stations in the remotest villages to health centres in reference-point towns.
Basic water and sanitation services for Upper Denkyira East
The population of Upper Denkyira East lacks basic access to water and sanitation services, resulting in a higher transmission of infectious and diarrheic diseases such as NTDs.
Tackling NTDs through a gender equality perspective in Ghana
Women suffering from diseases such as NTDs are even more vulnerable to poverty and lack of opportunities.
Giving voice to people suffering from NTDs to improve their participation in society
There exist evidence of lack of inclusion and participation of people with skin-NTDs in most community activities.
Addressing NTDs in the Eastern Region of Ghana
Ghana is endemic for several NTDs and about half of the population lives in rural, impoverished and isolated areas that are conducive to their proliferation.
Controlling new cases of leprosy in Bawku
In 2021, 8 new cases of leprosy were detected in the municipality and in 2022 5 have been detected so far.
Hand washing and new wells to tackle yaws in Akuapim
Akuapim North and South Districts, located in the Eastern Region of Ghana, has seen an increase in yaws cases since 2020.
Improving the health of communities in Upper Denkyira
the Upper Denkyira East and Upper Denkyira West districts in Ghana are endemic of a number of NTDs, namely Buruli ulcer, yaws and leprosy.
Freeing Aowin district from the burden of skin-NTDs
Yaws, Lymphatic filariasis and other skin-NTDs cause suffering and disabilities in communities of the Aowin district in Ghana, in the South-western part of the country.
A comprehensive approach aimed at reducing skin NTDs in three districts in Ghana
This holistic approach will enable us to improve access and coverage for 6,000 people in three districts of Ghana by improving health care and extending it at community and psychosocial level.
Bringing about a change of attitude to reduce NTDs in Ellembelle
By the end of the project we envision a behavioural change towards skin-NTDs in the endemic communities suffering from them, resulting in a lower prevalence of this diseases and greater acceptance of those suffering from any NTD.
Reducing NTDs in 13 endemic district of Eastern Ghana
Alongside Hope for Future Generation and Rural Watch, the project will be implemented in 13 NTD endemic districts in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
A path to a full recovery that includes mental health
By strengthening the capacity of health workers to tackle the consequences of NTDs on mental health, we will support a full recovery of patients.
Partnerships with mental health organisations in Ghana
By supporting Basic Needs, a Ghanaian organization that work for social inclusion and opportunities for people suffering from mental health, we are tackling different aspects that improve the life quality of people with NTDs.
Supporting the Ghanaian Upper East Region to end NTDs
This project forces to tackle the problems faced by people affected with skin NTDs in the Upper East Region of Ghana.
WASH, mental health and microcredits to improve the livelihood of NTD-affected people in Ghana
By implementing WASH activities and other health related activities, we will further provide alternative opportunities to ensure that persons affected by skin-NTDs are capable of working to improve their livelihood.
New Surveillance Model for Detecting Cases of NTDs in Cameroon
Thanks to these interventions we will be able to obtain an objective picture of the actual situation of NTDs in the Bafia district and take action to carry out integrated surveillance.
InfoNTD: A New Digital Platform to Centralise All Relevant NTD-Related Information
This initiative will enable a greater dissemination of publications, evidence and successful practices in the fight against skin NTDs.
A New Early Detection System for Buruli Ulcer
This will increase early detection, reducing the number of severe cases of the disease, and in turn will lower expenses for patients and their families as there will be fewer severe cases requiring intensive care.
Better Mental Health for People with NTDs in Nigeria as a Result of Integrated Care
This initiative will support the Nigerian government and other civil society organisations to develop and pilot-test a comprehensive intervention to integrate mental health and NTDs.
An Initiative to Find Innovative Interventions for the Comprehensive Treatment of NTDs
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
Support for Leprosy Research Teams Via the Leprosy Research Initiative (LRI)
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
Creating Scientific Research Opportunities on NTDs for Young Professionals from Countries Where these Diseases Are Endemic
Encouraging young researchers in countries where skin NTDs are endemic will contribute to the development of a new generation of scientists who will be better able to understand and manage the challenges of these diseases.
Reducing Stigma and Disabilities
Via this research project we seek to guarantee the Right to Health of people with disabilities, with a special focus on those with NTDs in Côte d’Ivoire and Benin.
A New Clinical Study to Improve the Treatment of Leprosy and Prevent its Harmful Side Effects
Via this study, we will enhance capacity-building, strengthen active integrated case detection, as well as enable early detection and accurate diagnoses.
To Fight Against the Stigma of Skin NTDs in Ghana by Sensitising Religious Leaders on the Topic of NTDs
Via this project we will raise awareness among key figures in the communities where people affected by NTDs live.
Improving Health Conditions in the Prefecture of Mô
Raising awareness of the Right to Health and gender will foster more equitable participation in health care, thereby reducing stigmatisation and discrimination.
Improving the Health System for Neglected Tropical Diseases in the Department of Zuénoula
Screening and medical care for people affected by skin NTDs will be carried out and efforts will be made to improve the health infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of water and sanitation systems.
Association for the Prevention and Eradication of Neglected Tropical Diseases
The proposed project seeks to complement and build on existing efforts by focusing on economic empowerment, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and livelihood programmes for the people affected.
Mobilisation of Efforts to Combat Neglected Tropical Diseases
This project will focus on improving access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, eliminating barriers and stigma, strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations (CSOs) and raising community awareness of Neglected Tropical Diseases.
Strengthening the Management of Skin NTDs in the Haut-Sassandra Health Region
The project aims to improve the quality of life of people in the region affected by skin NTDs by focusing on active case detection, social integration and the creation of Income Generating Activities.
Improved Living Conditions for Communities in the Departments of Toumodi and Tiassale
The project is expected to have a positive impact on the quality of life of the rights-bearing population affected by skin NTDs in the regions of Tiassalé and Toumodi.
Work on the Differentiated Impact between Men and Women in the Departments of Daloa, Zoukougbeu and Vavoua
Creating employment opportunities and income generating activities will also have a positive impact on the community as they will strengthen the local economy and promote the social inclusion of people affected by NTDs.
Reducing Stigma and Increasing the Autonomy of People Diagnosed with NTDs
This project is expected to make a significant impact on reducing stigmatisation and the socio-economic exclusion of people affected by skin NTDs in the sub-prefectures of Grégbeu, Zoukougbeu and Guessabo.