A Review on the Epidemiology and Burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases

Abstract

Neglected Tropical Diseases are group of infectious diseases caused by various microorganisms that cause debilitating infections with worrisome sequelae affecting the underserved and underdeveloped regions of the world. Despite their prevalence and clinical outcomes, they have not received major research funding, curative measures or preventive methods because of they are not majorly a problem of the developed world. We set out to review the various diseases in the Neglected Tropical Diseases spectrum with an aim to stimulate academic interest, provide awareness and contribute to the body of knowledge. Literature search was done using keywords described above on MedLine, PubMed, HINARI and Advanced Google search.  Relevant articles were pooled and information was extracted and appropriately referenced. Books and Journal hardcopies were also obtained from the Libraries of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. These were referenced accordingly. The seventeen Neglected Tropical Diseases as prioritized by the World Health Organization were reviewed in terms of their prevalence, areas affected, clinical presentation, treatment and control measures. They are the American Trypanasomiasis (Chagas disease), Human African Trypanasomiasis (Sleeping sickness), Leishmaniasis, Leprosy, Trachoma, Buruli Ulcer, Yaws, Dracunculiasis (Guinea worm disease), Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis), Onchocerciasis (River Blindness), Schistosomiasis (Bilhazia), Soil Transmitted Helminths, Echinococcosis, Cysticercosis/Taeniasis, Fascioliasis, Dengue virus and Rabies virus. Neglected topical diseases are prevalent in tropical regions with Nigeria inclusive. Researchers, the Non-Governmental Organizations, Governments and other relevant stakeholders in the affected regions must come together to curtail the menace of Neglected Tropical Diseases.