Neglected Tropical Diseases in the Catholic World
2011

Neglected Tropical Diseases in the Catholic World

Editorial Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Peter J. Hotez

Primary Institution: Sabin Vaccine Institute

Hypothesis

The distribution of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) is not uniform and is significantly prevalent in Catholic majority countries.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that Catholic charities have a unique opportunity to promote NTD control in endemic Catholic majority countries.

Supporting Evidence

  • One-quarter of the world's most common neglected tropical diseases occur in Catholic majority countries.
  • NTDs cause a massive global disease burden and promote poverty.
  • Almost all cases of Chagas disease are found in Latin America, where many Catholics live.

Takeaway

Many people in countries with a lot of Catholics are sick from diseases that are often ignored, but charities can help them get better.

Limitations

The analysis does not include countries with significant Catholic minority populations.

Participant Demographics

The study focuses on Catholic majority countries, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pntd.0001132

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