The World Health Organization(WHO),has said about 50 million persons are at risk of contracting Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) annually.
It also said more than 1 million Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) new cases are still being detected yearly.
Dr.Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Head of Mission and Representative,disclosed these in his goodwill message to commemorate the 2022 World Neglected tropical diseases (NTD) Day in Nigeria.
He stated that, this year’s theme is “Achieving health equity to end the neglect of poverty related diseases” and there is the need for increased collaboration by all stakeholders.
According to him:”Health inequities triggered by COVID-19 have undermined economic, societal, and developmental progress. Focusing on NTDs provides a step forward in addressing diseases of poverty. The NTD programmes contribute to stronger health systems by enhancing capacity, bringing communities together and contributing to universal health coverage
“Young people’s voice and commitment are critical to advocating for and to supporting NTD programmes and policies. This will ensure future generations, free of NTDs.Stigma, discrimination & mental health are neglected consequences of disability, mainly from NTDs. Eliminating NTDs will ensure an inclusive and equitable response for everyone”, Mulombo stated.
He said Nigeria remains important in the global NTD eradication road map and has made significant progress in treatment and control of NTD.
Mulombo noted that WHO in collaborations with other key partners, will step-up action in supporting Nigeria to mobilize the needed domestic and international resources required for the control, elimination and eradication of NTD in the country.
He said: “I want to encourage individuals, communities, and local governments to encourage surveillance, testing and treatment for NTD and to learn more about these diseases, to end the silent epidemic it causes.WHO works with countries and everyone – including partners and NGOs – to address NTDs towards health systems strengthening and universal health coverage
“Let me pledge WHO’s commitment to continuing partnership with FMoH and other departments, partners and stakeholders working on NTD through provision of technical support, and innovations towards the attainment of the set targets. WHO is also committed to facilitating the donation of all essential medicines for NTD as it has always done each year.
1023000cookie-check50m People Risk Contracting Neglected Tropical Diseases Annually-WHO
