CBM NTD Report 2015: Neglected Tropical Diseases.

CBM publishes its Neglected Tropical Diseases Report 2015.

CBM has been successfully involved in prevention of blindness from onchocerciasis and trachoma for more than 20 years. In order to fight against the five major NTDs (trachoma, onchocerciasis, lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminths), CBM works with partners at the global, regional and country levels to support national programmes and their efforts to control or eliminate NTDs. The average costs of treatment are estimated at 50 US cents per person per year. The primary focus in current NTD programmes is on prevention and treatment. However, it is important to recognise the need for continuum of care for people affected, in order to reduce suffering from morbidity, stigma and poverty, and enable participation in family and community life.

The five major NTDs, trachoma, onchocerciasis, LF, SCH and STH, account for almost 90% of the global NTD burden and can be addressed through preventive chemotherapy (PCT). CBM supports MDA (mass drug administration) for the ‘big five’ in priority countries mainly through community-directed treatment – a strategy that helps communities to be responsible for the collection, delivery and recording of drug use.

CBM supports work with NTDs in 25 countries.