WHO Report: Progress On Neglected Tropical Diseases

A new report released today by the World Health Organization found that 17 neglected tropical diseases can be controlled. If strategies set out in the report are implemented widely, “they can substantially reduce the disease burden, breaking a cycle of infection, disability and lost opportunities that keep people in poverty, WHO Director General Margaret Chan said in a press release.

The diseases, which are endemic in 149 countries, will be addressed through increased resources brought by drug donations from the pharmaceutical industry, contributions from governments and foundations, preventative actions, and targeted research, as shown in the report.

Additional pledges were announced today, according to the release, with Novartis, GlaxoSmithKline, and Sanofi-aventis renewing their commitments to help. Pharmaceutical companies received credit for the initiative but it was not immediately clear who will pay nor what is the status of the drugs to be donated, including markets and patents.

According to the report, steady progress is being made but some challenges still need attention, such as the need for a targeted research for neglected tropical diseases, and long-term commitment of resources.

Click here to read the report [pdf].

International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Association release here.