Search Results (123)

The burden of mental health among individuals affected by skin-neglected tropical diseases (skin-NTDs) has increased significantly, prompting systemic measures to improve their mental health and well-being. Healthcare professionals have instrumental roles to play in this area in terms of integrating mental health into the existing primary and community healthcare services for skin-NTDs. The current study investigates the readiness of healthcare professionals for integrated healthcare, barriers to mental health service delivery and the professional development needs for mental health service delivery. A total of 252 healthcare professionals recruited from Nkwanta North and South Districts in the Oti Region of Ghana participated in the study by completing a set of questionnaires measuring the above variables, in addition to demographic factors. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the study variables while Pearson Moment Product Correlation was used to investigate the relationship between continuous study variables. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to elucidate the factorial validity of the study measures. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to examine the association between the variables and the mediating effects of professional development needs. The results showed that over 50% of the participants encountered several barriers in their attempt to provide mental health services to patients, and over 80% of them requested training and capacity building in mental health. CFA supports a two-factor structure of the readiness scale and one-factor structure of mental health barrier and professional development needs scales. SEM revealed a significant relationship between readiness for integrated healthcare, mental health barriers and professional development needs (p < 0.05). Further SEM analysis revealed that professional development needs significantly mediated the relationship between readiness for integrated healthcare and mental health barriers (p < 0.05). Addressing mental health professional development needs of healthcare professionals will help ensure their readiness for integrated healthcare for people with skin-NTDs. Full article

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are parasitic nematodes that infect humans, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, where they contribute substantially to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Among them, hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus and Ancylostoma ceylanicum) cause substantial morbidity, leading to anaemia, malnutrition, and developmental impairment. Despite the global impact of hookworm disease, genomic research on A. duodenale has lagged behind that of other hookworms, limiting comparative and molecular biological investigations. Here, we report the first chromosome-level reference genome of A. duodenale, assembled from a single adult specimen archived in ethanol at −20 °C for more than 27 years. Using third-generation sequencing (PacBio Revio, Menlo Park, CA, USA, Oxford Nanopore, Oxford, UK), Hi-C scaffolding, and advanced computational tools, we produced a high-quality 319 Mb genome, filling a critical gap in hookworm genomics. Comparative analyses with N. americanus and the related, free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans provided new insights into genome organisation, synteny, and specific adaptations. While A. duodenale exhibited strong chromosomal synteny with N. americanus, its limited synteny with C. elegans highlights its distinct parasitic adaptations. We identified 20,015 protein-coding genes, including conserved single-copy orthologues (SCOs) linked to host–pathogen interactions, immune evasion and essential biological processes. The first comprehensive secretome analysis of A. duodenale revealed a diverse repertoire of excretory/secretory (ES) proteins, including immunomodulatory candidates predicted to interact with host structural and immune-related proteins. This study advances hookworm genomics, establishes a basis for the sequencing of archival specimens, and provides fundamental insights into the molecular biology of A. duodenale. The genomic resource for this hookworm species creates new opportunities for diagnostic, therapeutic, and vaccine development within a One Health framework. It complements recent epidemiological work and aligns with the WHO NTD roadmap (2021–2030) and Sustainable Development Goal 3.3. Full article

Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic worms of the genus Schistosoma and transmitted through freshwater snails, affects over 200 million people worldwide. Climate change, through rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events, is influencing the distribution and transmission dynamics of schistosomiasis. This scoping review examines the impact of climate change on schistosomiasis transmission and its implications for disease control. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the influence of climate variables (temperature, rainfall, water bodies) on snail populations, transmission dynamics, and the shifting geographic range of schistosomiasis. It also explores the potential effects of climate adaptation policies on disease control. The review follows the Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, including studies published from 2000 to 2024. Eligible studies were selected based on empirical data on climate change, schistosomiasis transmission, and snail dynamics. A two-stage study selection process was followed: title/abstract screening and full-text review. Data were extracted on environmental factors, snail population dynamics, transmission patterns, and climate adaptation strategies. Climate change is expected to increase schistosomiasis transmission in endemic regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America, while some areas, such as parts of West Africa, may see reduced risk. Emerging hotspots were identified in regions not currently endemic. Climate adaptation policies, such as improved water management and early warning systems, were found effective in reducing transmission. Integrating climate adaptation strategies into schistosomiasis control programs is critical to mitigating the disease’s spread, particularly in emerging hotspots and shifting endemic areas. Full article

Scabies and tungiasis are skin-related neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) associated with poverty and poor living conditions. We performed an ecological study covering a state in northeast Brazil to identify socio-economic and environmental factors associated with the occurrence of severe scabies and severe tungiasis, respectively. Data on disease occurrence on the municipality level were derived from a previous study based on online questionnaires. A total of 47 (26.0%) of the 181 state’s municipalities reported severe tungiasis, and 113 (62.4%) severe scabies. Municipalities with occurrence of severe tungiasis were characterized by higher annual rainfalls (median = 883 mm vs. 741 mm; p = 0.037), higher minimum temperatures (median = 23.4 °C vs. 22.7 °C; p = 0.002), higher aridity indices indicating more humid climates (median = 45.1 vs. 50.6; p = 0.019), lower altitudes (median = 88.8 m vs. 201 m; p < 0.001), higher mean air humidity (66.5% vs. 63%; p = 0.018), and better socioeconomic indices (Municipal Human Development Index [MHDI]—median = 0.616 vs. 0.611; p = 0.048/MHDI Longevity—mean = 0.769 vs. 0.759; p = 0.007/Municipal Development Index [MDI]—median = 27.5 vs. 21.8; p < 0.001). Municipalities with predominant luvisol soil characteristics had a lower risk for severe tungiasis (RR = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.27–0.79; p = 0.003), whereas municipalities with predominant gleysols had a significantly higher risk (RR = 2.44; 95% CI = 1.43–4.15; p = 0.010). Municipalities with occurrence of severe scabies were characterized by significantly higher annual rainfalls (median = 804 mm vs. 708 mm; p = 0.001), higher minimum temperatures (23.1 °C vs. 22.3 °C; p < 0.001), higher aridity index (median = 48.2 vs. 41.9; p = 0.014), higher air humidity (65.9% vs. 61%; p = 0.001), lower altitudes (median = 153 m vs. 246 m; p = 0.003), and better socio-economic indicators (MHDI—median = 0.616 vs. 608; p= 0.012/MHDI Education—mean = 0.559 vs. 0.541; p = 0.014/MDI—median = 24.3 vs. 21.1; p = 0.005). In multivariate regression analysis, MDI remained significantly associated with the presence of severe tungiasis in the final model (RR = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02–1.05; p < 0.001) and the presence of severe scabies with minimum temperature (RR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04–1.24; p = 0.003) and aridity index (RR = 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00–1.01; p = 0.004). Our study underscores the importance of environmental and socioeconomic factors for the occurrence of severe scabies and tungiasis in a semi-arid climatic context, offering a perspective for identification of high-risk areas, and providing evidence for the control of skin NTDs withina One Health approach. Full article

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), including Chagas disease, human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), leishmaniasis, and malaria, remain a major global health challenge, disproportionately affecting low-income populations. Current therapies for these diseases suffer from significant limitations, such as reduced efficacy, high toxicity, and emerging parasite resistance, highlighting the urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. In response, substantial efforts have been directed toward the synthesis of new molecules with improved potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic profiles. However, despite many of these compounds exhibiting favorable ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) profiles and strong in vitro activity, their translation into in vivo models remains limited. Key challenges include the lack of investment, the absence of fully representative experimental models, and difficulties in extrapolating cell-based assay results to more complex biological systems. In this review, we analyzed the latest advancements (2019–2024) in the development of these compound classes, correlating predictive parameters with their observed biological activity. Among these parameters, we highlighted the partition coefficient (LogP), which measures a compound’s lipophilicity and influences its ability to cross biological membranes, and Caco-2 cell permeability, an in vitro model widely used to predict intestinal drug absorption. Additionally, we prioritized the most promising molecules and structural classes for pharmaceutical development, discussing structure–activity relationships (SARs) and the remaining challenges that must be overcome to enable the clinical application of these compounds in the treatment of NTDs. Full article

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) associated with severe health consequences, including death. Hibiscus tiliaceus L., from the Malvaceae family, is used traditionally in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), to alleviate symptoms of SCD. However, the specific phytochemicals responsible for the observed therapeutic effects remain unclear. This study aims to characterize the aqueous leaf extract of H. tiliaceus and assess its biological activity against sickle cell disease, including its antisickling, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Using techniques such as TLC, HPLC-UV/DAD, LC-MS, and NMR, we identified kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside and rutin in the aqueous extract of H. tiliaceus leaves. Rutin exhibited potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, with IC₅₀ values of 5 µg/mL and 2.5 µg/mL, respectively. Conversely, kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside demonstrated superior antisickling activity, normalizing sickled red blood cells with an IC₅₀ < 12.5 µg/mL. Due to the pathophysiology of SCD, which involves the polymerization of red blood cells, which induces oxidative stress and an inflammatory response, this study suggests the importance of H. tiliaceus for the management of SCD. Additionally, the combined effect of molecules in H. tiliaceus will help in normalizing erythrocytes, inhibiting free radicals generated by early hemolysis, thus contributing to inflammatory processes reduction. This finding provides evidence and validates the traditional use of H. tiliaceus aqueous extract for the management of SCD. Full article

Background: Schistosomiasis (SCH) and soil transmitted helminthiasis (STH) have been targeted for elimination as a public health problem (EPHP) within the World Health Organization (WHO)’s Roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) 2021–2030. One of the global strategies for the control and elimination of these diseases is the mass administration of praziquantel and albendazole/mebendazole without prior individual diagnosis. To measure the progress towards the 2030 target, we conducted an assessment to determine the impact of the 3–5 rounds of annual mass drug administration among school age children in Ekiti State. Such scientific insights into the impact of these treatments will facilitate improved planning and targeting of resources towards reaching the last mile. Methodology: This assessment was conducted in 16 local government areas (LGAs) of Ekiti State between October and November 2023. Samples were collected from pupils in 166 primary and junior secondary schools across 166 wards of the State. Urine and stool samples were collected from 7670 pupils of ages 5 to 14 years, following standard laboratory procedures. Urine membrane filtration techniques were used for urine preparation while the Kato–Katz technique was used for stool preparation. A novel AiDx digital microscope was used to examine the presence of any ova in the prepared specimen. Parasite ova in urine were reported as the number of ova/10 mL of urine, and were categorized as light infection (˂50 ova/10 mL of urine) or heavy infection (>50 ova/10 mL of urine) while ova of parasites in stool samples were reported as eggs per gram of stool (EPG) and categorized into light, moderate and heavy infection. Results: Overall, 0.76% (0.56–0.95) at 95% CI of the 7670 respondents were infected with Schistosomia haematobium. No Schistosoma mansoni infection was recorded in the study. Similarly, 3.9% (3.43–4.29) at 95% CI were infected with STHs. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis had significantly reduced from 8.2% in 2008 to 0.8%, while the overall prevalence of STHs significantly reduced from 30.9% to 3.9% with Ascaris lumbricoides being the dominant species of STH. In the 16 LGAs assessed, Ekiti West had the highest S. haematobium prevalence of 4.26%. Ise/Orun and Oye ranked second and third with a prevalence of 3.48% and 2.40% respectively, while all other LGAs had <1% prevalence. The prevalence of STHs was highest in Ekiti-West with a prevalence of 10.45% while Emure and Ikole Local Governments had the lowest prevalence of 0.31% and 0.38%, respectively. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of schistosomiasis between male (0.76%) and female (0.75%) as p ≥ 0.05. Similarly, the difference in prevalence for STH among males (3.95%) was not significantly different from their female counterparts (3.77%), p ≥ 0.05. Conclusions: Based on the WHO guidelines, this study demonstrated that only three LGAs require continued MDA every 2/3 years, seven require only surveillance while six are now non-endemic for schistosomiasis. Similarly, two of the LGAs require one round of MDA yearly, eight LGAs need one round of MDA every two to three years and six LGAs are now below the treatment threshold and no longer require treatment for STH. Full article

Background/Objectives: Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as leishmaniasis, remain a global health challenge due to limited therapeutic options and rising drug resistance. In this study, we developed an advanced nanogel formulation incorporating curcumin (CUR) and Pectis brevipedunculata essential oil (EOPb) within an F127/Carbopol 974P matrix to enhance bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy against Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis (LLa) promastigotes. Methods: The chemical profile of EOPb was determined through GC-MS and NMR analyses, confirming the presence of key bioactive monoterpenes such as neral, geranial, $\alpha$-pinene, and limonene. The nanogel formulation (nGPC) was optimized to ensure thermosensitivity, and stability, exhibiting a sol–gel transition at physiological temperatures. Rheological analysis revealed that nGPC exhibited Newtonian behavior at 5 °C, transitioning to shear-thinning and thixotropic characteristics at 25 and 32 °C, respectively. This behavior facilitates its application and controlled drug release, making it ideal for topical formulations. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis demonstrated that nGPC maintained a stable nanoscale structure with hydrodynamic radius below 300 nm, while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed strong molecular interactions between EOPb, CUR, and the polymer matrix. Biological assays demonstrated that nGPC significantly enhanced anti-promastigote activity compared to free CUR and OEPb. Results: At the highest tested concentration (50 μg/mL EOPb and 17.5 μg/mL CUR) nGPC induced over 88% mortality in LLa promastigotes across 24, 48, and 72 h, indicating sustained efficacy. Even at lower concentrations, nGPC retained dose-dependent activity, suggesting a synergistic effect between CUR and EOPb. These findings highlight the potential of nGPC as an innovative nanocarrier for daylight photodynamic therapy (dPDT) in the treatment of leishmaniasis. Future studies will investigate the underlying mechanisms of this synergism and explore the potential application of photodynamic therapy (PDT) to further enhance therapeutic outcomes. Full article

Background: Yaws is an infectious, neglected tropical disease that affects the skin of many children and adolescents who live in poor, rural, low-income communities in humid, tropical areas of Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Yaws is currently endemic in at least 15 countries, but adequate surveillance data are lacking. In line with the WHO’s effort to improve early detection, diagnosis, and proper management leading to the eventual eradication of yaws, this article reviews the existing literature on yaws in Africa to highlight the epidemiological pattern, genetic variability, diagnosis modalities, treatment, and control strategies, the challenges and prospects for yaws eradication. Methods: We searched PubMed and Scopus databases to identify published data in line with the review objectives. Results: One hundred and eighty-eight peer-reviewed articles were identified by PubMed and Scopus, out of which thirty were eligible. The studies covered 11 African countries, with the reported prevalence ranging from 0.50% to 43.0%. Conclusions: There is a great prospect for eradication if countries capitalize on the availability of simple, inexpensive, and well-tolerated oral treatment that has proven effective, validated point-of-care diagnostic tests and new molecular tests. Countries should embark on integrated disease control efforts to increase sustainability and improve the quality of life for people living with this NTD in poor communities. Full article

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) represent a group of chronic and debilitating infections that affect more than one billion people, predominantly in low-income communities with limited health infrastructure. This paper analyzes the factors that perpetuate the burden of NTDs, highlighting how poor health infrastructure, unfavorable socioeconomic conditions and lack of therapeutic resources exacerbate their impact. The effectiveness of current interventions, such as mass drug administration (MDA) programs and improved sanitation, in reducing disease prevalence is examined. In addition, the role of climate change, which alters transmission dynamics and expands affected territories, is discussed as an emerging challenge. The analysis suggests that integrated, multisectoral approaches, including health education and infrastructure interventions, are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty and disease. Although international programs have marked significant progress, achieving elimination targets by 2030 requires sustained commitment, innovation, and increased research capacity in endemic countries. Full article

Background: Onchocerciasis, or river blindness, is one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that the WHO has set out to eliminate. To reach this elimination target, a number of challenges must be met, and the essential measures set out in the road map for NTDs 2021–2030 must be implemented. More than 99% of infected people live in 31 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Our objective was to assess the impact of onchocerciasis interventions in Africa. Methodology: A systematic peer review of the existing literature following the PRISMA guidelines was performed between November 2021 and April 2022. We selected studies on onchocerciasis control measures in Africa since the implementation of the first Onchocerciasis Control Programme (OCP) measures in 1974. All scientific articles indexed in the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and CENTRAL databases written in Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese were considered. The study protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database. Results: A total of 63 articles met the inclusion criteria and were finally selected. Publications were found from 19 out of 31 African endemic countries. The main intervention retained in the different published studies was mass distribution of ivermectin (n = 51). According to our results, 11 African countries have managed to interrupt transmission of onchocerciasis in at least one area in the country; 11 countries have not achieved this goal, while 1 country has managed to eliminate the disease, but it has resurged. Conclusions: Control interventions showed a positive impact on the fight against onchocerciasis, demonstrating that these activities are effective. Nevertheless, they were not sufficient to achieve the proposed goals for a variety of reasons. Therefore, different aspects should be considered in order to fulfil the targets proposed by the WHO to be reached in 2030. Full article

Community engagement has emerged as a critical component in the effective control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), particularly in regions with persistent stigma and limited healthcare access. Drawing on case studies from Brazil, India, and Nigeria, this opinion piece explores how community-driven initiatives have successfully improved leprosy awareness, reduced stigma, and fostered early case detection and treatment adherence. The importance of culturally sensitive, inclusive approaches in health education and stigma reduction campaigns is highlighted, emphasizing the potential for community engagement to enhance national leprosy programs and contribute to the World Health Organization’s Zero Leprosy Strategy. By examining these examples, this article illustrates how integrating community participation into leprosy control and elimination programs can drive sustainable outcomes for achieving Zero Leprosy, even in resource-limited settings. Full article

Background: Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of twenty diseases that occur in tropical and subtropical regions that particularly affect vulnerable and often marginalised populations. Five of these are classified as “preventive chemotherapy” (PC) diseases such as trachoma, onchocerciasis, geo-helminthiasis, lymphatic filariasis, and schistosomiasis. This study aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare providers in the Forecariah health district with respect to PC-NTDs in Guinea in 2022. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from 7 to 22 November 2022 among healthcare providers in the health district of Forécariah in Guinea. Data on participants’ socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge of and attitudes and practices regarding PC-NTDs were collected using an electronic (KoboToolbox) semi-structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Among the 86 healthcare providers who participated in this study, nurses (44.2%) and young adults aged between 25 and 49 years (81.4%) were mostly represented. The majority of respondents declared having already heard about onchocerciasis (70.7%) and lymphatic filariasis (60.0%) but only the minority declared having already heard about geo-helminthiasis (30.7%), schistosomiasis (21.3%), and trachoma (9.3%). Only a few respondents knew how to prevent PC-NTDs (onchocerciasis 26.7%, lymphatic filariasis 26.7%, geo-helminthiasis 29.3%, and schistosomiasis 17.3%). Many healthcare providers reported they would refer cases of onchocerciasis (50.6%), lymphatic filariasis (58.7%), and schistosomiasis (46.7%) to a management centre. Conclusions: This study highlights the varying levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices among healthcare providers in dealing with PC-NTDs, suggesting areas for improvement in training and resource allocation. Full article