Scientists collaborating to combat neglected tropical diseases

Neglected Tropical Diseases: Why Aren't We Doing More?

Theo Raines in Health & Wellness November 2025 • 4 min read.

"A Deep Dive into the Fight Against Poverty-Related Illnesses and What Scientists Can Do."

Imagine a world where simple infections can lead to years of suffering, disability, and even death. This is the reality for the 1.9 billion people affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). These diseases, often overshadowed by higher-profile illnesses like malaria and HIV/AIDS, primarily affect impoverished communities with limited access to clean water, adequate nutrition, and healthcare.

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies 20 diseases as NTDs, a diverse group of viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. These illnesses perpetuate a cycle of poverty, hindering economic development and individual potential. While significant medical advancements have been made in recent decades, effective treatments for NTDs remain woefully inadequate.

But there is hope. As highlighted by the German Network against Neglected Tropical Diseases (DNTDs), a growing global effort is underway to combat these diseases. This article delves into the current state of NTD research, the importance of translational research, and how scientists can play a crucial role in achieving "health for all."

The Stark Reality of Neglected Tropical Diseases

Scientists collaborating to combat neglected tropical diseases

NTDs are more than just medical issues; they are significant barriers to global health and economic development. These diseases can keep individuals bedridden for weeks or months, prevent them from working, and cause lifelong disabilities or disfigurement. The impact is especially devastating for children, hindering their growth, development, and educational opportunities.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted in 2016, recognize NTDs as a crucial component of universal health coverage. The ambitious goal of "leaving no one behind" requires a focused effort to address these diseases and improve the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.

Limited Access: NTDs thrive in areas with poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
Economic Burden: The diseases reduce productivity, increase healthcare costs, and trap communities in cycles of poverty.
Social Stigma: Many NTDs cause disfigurement and disability, leading to social stigma and discrimination.
Lack of Investment: NTDs receive disproportionately less funding compared to other global health challenges, hindering research and development efforts.

Addressing NTDs requires a multi-pronged approach that includes improved sanitation, access to clean water, vector control, and the development of new and improved diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines. Strengthening healthcare systems in endemic countries is also essential to ensure that these interventions reach the people who need them most.

A Call to Action: How Scientists Can Make a Difference

The fight against NTDs requires a collaborative effort from researchers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and affected communities. Scientists have a vital role to play in developing new tools and strategies to combat these diseases and improve the lives of millions. By focusing on translational research and fostering collaborations, we can move closer to a world free from the burden of NTDs.

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Everything You Need To Know

What are Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and who do they primarily affect?

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections identified by the World Health Organization (WHO). These diseases disproportionately affect impoverished communities with limited access to clean water, adequate nutrition, and healthcare. They trap these populations in cycles of poverty and illness, hindering economic development and individual potential.

What are some of the major barriers to addressing Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)?

Several barriers impede efforts to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). These include limited access to clean water and sanitation, which allows NTDs to thrive. The economic burden caused by NTDs further exacerbates poverty. Social stigma related to disfigurement and disability caused by some NTDs, and a lack of investment in research and development also hinder progress. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach and robust resource allocation.

What role do scientists play in combating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)?

Scientists are crucial in developing new tools and strategies to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). Their work includes translational research, which focuses on converting basic scientific discoveries into practical applications, such as diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines. By fostering collaborations and focusing on innovation, scientists can significantly improve the lives of millions affected by NTDs. Their contributions are vital for achieving health equity and alleviating poverty.

How do Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) affect the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are recognized as a crucial component affecting the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health and well-being. NTDs hinder progress toward universal health coverage and the goal of "leaving no one behind." Addressing NTDs is essential for improving the health and economic prospects of vulnerable populations, thus contributing to the broader agenda of sustainable development.

What is the German Network against Neglected Tropical Diseases (DNTDs) and what does it highlight about the fight against NTDs?

The German Network against Neglected Tropical Diseases (DNTDs) highlights the growing global effort to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). It underscores the importance of coordinated strategies and increased awareness to address these poverty-related illnesses. The DNTDs exemplifies collaborative initiatives that bring together researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to develop and implement effective interventions, driving progress towards a world free from the burden of NTDs.