Unite. Act. Eliminate.
World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, observed globally on 30 January, is a chance to maintain momentum to end the suffering caused by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
NTDs led to the loss of 1 089 573 disability-adjusted life years in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region in 2019. By 2021, interventions against NTDs were needed for 72 million people in the Region.
The Eastern Mediterranean Region has the highest prevalence of skin-related NTDs among all WHO regions.
Milestones
Egypt and Yemen have eliminated lymphatic filariasis as a public health problem.
Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Morocco, Oman and Saudi Arabia have eliminated trachoma as a public health problem.
All countries of the Region have eradicated guinea-worm disease, though Sudan is at the pre-certification stage for eradication.
Stories from the Region
Campaign materials
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. They cost billions annually in direct health costs, lost productivity and reduced socioeconomic and educational attainment. They are also responsible for disability, stigma and discrimination. But these days, we have the tools that can prevent, control, eliminate and eradicate NTDs.
On this year’s World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, under the slogan of "Unite. Act. Eliminate.", the World Health Organization is calling on everyone to unite and act to support the growing momentum to end these diseases that should belong to the past.
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» Listen to WHO experts and partners discuss the importance of eliminating NTDs. View our multimedia page on neglected tropical diseases.
