ThankGod Onuoha Foundation undertakes vital research projects focused on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and antibiotic authenticity through innovative studies. The foundation advances disease control, improves diagnostics and promotes access to safe/effective medicines. The research work aims to address public health challenges in underserved communities, aiming to reduce disease burden and combat the spread of counterfeit antibiotics.
Neglected Tropical Infectious Diseases (NTDs) are a group of communicable diseases that prevail in tropical and subtropical regions, affecting over one billion people worldwide, particularly those living in poverty, without adequate sanitation, and in close contact with infectious vectors and livestock. Despite their widespread impact, these diseases have historically received less attention and funding compared to other global health priorities.
Globally, more than 20 diseases are classified as NTDs by the World Health Organization (WHO), including schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis (river blindness), trachoma, soil-transmitted helminth infections, and leishmaniasis. These diseases cause chronic illness, disfigurement, disability, and social stigma, trapping affected populations in cycles of poverty and poor health.
Africa bears a disproportionate burden of NTDs, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for the majority of global cases of diseases such as schistosomiasis, onchocerciasis, and lymphatic filariasis. Factors like poor access to clean water, inadequate sanitation, weak healthcare systems, and the presence of insect vectors contribute to their persistence. For example, over 90% of onchocerciasis cases occur in Africa, causing irreversible blindness and severe skin disease if left untreated.
Efforts to control NTDs have intensified over the past two decades through mass drug administration, vector control, improved water and sanitation, and health education. Initiatives like the WHO’s 2021–2030 NTD roadmap and partnerships such as the London Declaration on NTDs have driven progress, with notable reductions in disease prevalence in several regions. Some countries have achieved elimination of diseases like trachoma as a public health problem.
However, challenges remain. Climate change, conflict, displacement, and fragile health systems threaten gains, while underfunding hampers comprehensive responses. There is also a need for new diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines to address drug resistance and treatment limitations.
Globally, addressing NTDs aligns with achieving universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those targeting health, poverty, and inequality. Scaling up integrated interventions, fostering multisectoral collaboration, and sustaining political and financial commitment are essential to ending the neglect of these preventable and treatable diseases.
In summary, NTDs continue to affect millions of people worldwide, with the highest burden in Africa. While significant progress has been made, sustained efforts are required to control, eliminate, and ultimately eradicate these diseases, improving health outcomes and breaking the cycle of poverty for vulnerable communities.
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