3rd World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day

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World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day was observed to raise awareness for neglected tropical diseases. 

What is World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day?

World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day is observed every year on January 30.

Aim: To serve as a catalyst to translate awareness into action, secure increased resources for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and crucially facilitate political leadership and ownership of NTD programmes from affected countries.

Theme: ‘Achieving health equity to end the neglect of poverty-related diseases’.

In India, NTD Day was organized by the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) by illuminating the iconic New Delhi Railway Station to generate awareness about NTDs.

What are Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day?

NTDs are caused mostly by a variety of pathogens including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins.

They are “neglected” because they are almost absent from the global health agenda of the developed countries and are associated with stigma and social exclusion.

Click Here to read more about NTDs

What are the steps taken by India to eliminate NTDs?

Firstly, India has already eliminated several NTDs, including guinea worm, trachoma, and yaws.

Secondly, A WHO-supported regional alliance was established by governments of India, Bangladesh, and Nepal in 2005 to expedite early diagnosis and treatment of the most vulnerable populations and improve disease surveillance and control of sandfly populations (Kala-azar).

Thirdly, Preventive methods like Mass Drug Administration (MDA) rounds are periodically deployed in endemic areas, during which anti-filarial medicines are provided free-of-cost to at-risk communities.

Fourthly, Vector-control measures like Indoor Residual Spraying rounds are undertaken in endemic areas to prevent sandfly breeding.

Fifthly, State and central governments have also introduced wage compensation schemes for those suffering from Kala-Azar and its sequela (a condition which is the consequence of a previous disease or injury) known as Post-Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis.

Source: This post is based on the article “3rd World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day” published in PIB on 1st Feb 2022.