On May 31, 2021, during the Seventy-fourth World Health Assembly, World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day was formally acknowledged and became one of the 11 Global Health Days and 2 Global Health Weeks recognized by the WHO. This formal acknowledgement emphasizes the international commitment to addressing neglected tropical diseases as a priority on the global health agenda.

 

Now, every year on the 30th of January, World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day has been celebrated which is an important initiative highlighting the need to face the challenges posed by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). In 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) calls on global leaders and communities to unite and jointly act, with the goal of eliminating chronic diseases and liberating an estimated 1.62 billion people from the relentless cycle of disease and poverty.

 

NTDs comprise a range of diseases that commonly thrive in environments contaminated by human excrement. These diseases cause severe consequences such as anemia, vitamin A deficiency, stunted growth, malnutrition, intestinal obstruction, and impaired development. The extensive list of NTDs includes Buruli ulcer, Chagas disease, dengue, chikungunya, dracunculiasis, echinococcosis, and many others.

 

Its significance lies in raising awareness about these diseases, shedding light on the immense suffering they cause. The mission aligns with programmatic targets outlined in the NTD Road Map 2021−2030 and the commitments of the 2022 Kigali Declaration on Neglected Tropical Diseases. It's a global call to action, urging individuals, communities, and leaders to actively participate in the control, elimination, and eventual eradication of these often-overlooked health challenges. The core message resonating on this day underscores that neglected tropical diseases are not impossible. They are preventable and treatable. By committing to bold and sustainable investments, the global community can pave the way to eliminate these diseases, offering hope to vulnerable communities worldwide.

 

In conclusion, as we celebrate the day, may it serve as an important reminder of our collective responsibility to address health disparities, alleviating the suffering in vulnerable communities. By uniting, acting, and committing to elimination, the global community can make significant strides towards a future free from the burdens of neglected tropical diseases. It's not just a day; it's a movement towards a healthier, more equitable world.