Forging the chain: scenes from the battle against neglected tropical diseases, with the support of innovative partners
Overview
Partnering in the battle against neglected tropical diseases
“Man and his species are in perpetual struggle with microbes, with incompatible mothers-in-law, with drunken car-drivers and with cosmic rays from Outer Space.” Gordon, 1958
Battling neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) is not easy for a number of reasons. The microbial world is mobile and the targets keep changing.
This book reflects on a 15-year battle – one that is still continuing – against five tropical diseases that have been long neglected yet take a heavy toll in death and human suffering today.
It introduces some of the protagonists involved – patients in remote villages, health workers, community leaders, district and health ministry officials, researchers, donors nd agency staff under the leadership of the World Health Organization (WHO). Its goal is to situate NTDs historically, culturally, and scientifically, and to illustrate the efforts taken over the years to end suffering and bring hope to the thousands of people who have been afflicted by these deadly diseases.
Helping the WHO in this endeavour goes beyond fighting pathogens. It involves vigilance over a dangerous world and dedication to public health and well-being in a umber of respects – from supporting human rights to creating a better environment for all.