Stakeholders seek Comprehensive Approach to Tackle Neglected Tropical Diseases
The Director, Neglected Tropical Disease (NTDs) Department of Public Health, Federal Ministry of Health, Mr. Adebayo Peters has highlighted the urgent need for a multifaceted strategy to address the complex challenges posed by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
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Mr Peters made call during the two-day National Design of anti-stigma activities workshop with the tittle: Strengthening Access to People-Centered Mental Healthcare for People with NTDs in Nigeria Organised and funded by Global Disability Inclusion (CBM).
The objective of the workshop is to develop skin NTD lived-experience driven anti-stigma campaign for community-level adaptation in the project implementation sites to inform the scale-up plan, to enhance the capacity (skills and knowledge) of organizations of persons affected by NTDs and civil society organizations on implementing GEDSI-responsive anti-stigma campaign, to develop strategies for anti-stigma outreaches, set goals and map out relevant stakeholders.
Mr. Peters underscored the importance of holistic approaches that encompass not only medical interventions but also social, economic, and cultural considerations.
“NTDs, a group of diverse infections prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, present a formidable obstacle to public health systems worldwide. From leprosy to trachoma, these diseases affect millions of individuals, particularly in low-resource settings where access to healthcare and sanitation is limited”. He said.
“Despite significant progress in recent years, NTDs continue to exact a heavy toll on communities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and suffering”. He added.
He emphasized the interconnectedness of NTDs with broader societal issues, including mental health, stigma, and socioeconomic disparities.
“Addressing these diseases requires more than just medical treatment; it demands a comprehensive approach that tackles underlying determinants such as poverty, lack of education, and inadequate sanitation infrastructure. Furthermore, cultural beliefs and misconceptions surrounding NTDs must be addressed through targeted awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives”. He said.
“One of the key challenges in combating NTDs is the fragmented nature of existing healthcare systems, which often prioritize more visible or politically salient health issues. This fragmented approach hampers efforts to achieve sustainable progress and leaves marginalized communities vulnerable to the devastating effects of NTDs”. He added.
To overcome this challenge, Mr Peters called for greater collaboration between governments, international organizations, civil society groups, and the private sector to coordinate resources and expertise effectively.
“Despite the formidable obstacles, there is cause for optimism”.
“This serves as a clarion call for collective action to confront the complex challenges posed by neglected tropical diseases by adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying determinants of NTDs and fosters collaboration across sectors, the global community can move closer to achieving the ambitious goal of eliminating these diseases and alleviating the suffering of million worldwide”. He added.
The Programme Officer, CBM Global, James Cleobas emphasized the vital role of education and community awareness in combating misconceptions.
Cleobas stressed the need to dispel mythical beliefs surrounding NTDs, such as the notion that they are punishments for offenses or acts of witchcraft.
“By promoting understanding that NTDs are treatable conditions and not a result of personal fault, there is need to empower the affected individuals to overcome self-stigmatization”. He said.
Cleobas underscored the significance of integrating individuals with NTDs into public spaces without discrimination.
We called attention to the discriminatory practices observed in some primary health centers, where specific hospitals exclusively treat NTD patients, exacerbating their distress, we advocated for inclusive healthcare systems that cater to both NTD and non-NTD patients”. He added.
By adopting these multifaceted approaches, Cleobas expressed optimism about creating a future where stigma surrounding NTDs is eradicated, and affected individuals receive the support and care they deserve.
