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Neglected Tropical Disease

All articles tagged with #neglected tropical disease

Study warns cat-borne parasite could infect up to a third of people, risking sight
science1 month ago

Study warns cat-borne parasite could infect up to a third of people, risking sight

A new study warns that as much as one-third of the world’s population could be infected with Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite linked to cats and surrounding sources that is a leading cause of eye infections and potential permanent vision loss. The researchers urge WHO to recognize toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease to unlock funding for research, prevention, and treatment, and call for improved food safety, clean water, sanitation, antenatal care, and a One Health approach that includes managing stray cats.

Global Parasite May Be Shaping Human Cognition
science1 month ago

Global Parasite May Be Shaping Human Cognition

Toxoplasma gondii infects roughly one-third of people worldwide through cat feces, undercooked meat, contaminated water, and from mother to fetus. While often mild, the parasite can alter brain chemistry and behavior and has been linked to cognitive changes and an increased risk of schizophrenia. There is no vaccine or cure, and researchers argue for recognizing toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease to mobilize resources, address its significant health and economic burden, and target especially vulnerable populations in poorer regions.

Toxoplasmosis Could Be Classified as an NTD to Unlock Global Health Funding
health2 months ago

Toxoplasmosis Could Be Classified as an NTD to Unlock Global Health Funding

A new viewpoint argues that toxoplasmosis meets the WHO criteria to be classified as a neglected tropical disease, which would unlock funding and accelerate prevention, screening, and treatment efforts. About one-third of the global population is infected, though most are asymptomatic; ocular toxoplasmosis is a leading cause of eye infection and vision loss, and congenital infections affect roughly 190,000 babies annually. There is no vaccine or standard treatment, highlighting gaps in knowledge and care. Recognizing it as an NTD could enable integrated public health actions—improving food safety, sanitation, maternal and child health—across multiple sectors to reduce infection and health burden.