Neglected tropical diseases are a diverse group of communicable diseases that prevail in tropical and subtropical regions. They are caused by a variety of pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa and parasitic worms (helminths).

They are termed ‘neglected’ as they generally affect poorer populations often living in remote rural or peri-urban areas in developing countries without adequate sanitation, in poor housing conditions and with little access to health services, and as most are focal in nature and occur in remote areas, they are rarely given high priority by decision-makers in endemic countries. There are thousands of new cases every year.

The lack of access to health services, low levels of literacy, inadequate nutrition and poor personal hygiene aids the spread of infections. If left untreated these diseases can cause severe complications, including disability and disfigurement which can lead to stigmatization and social exclusion.