The Neglected Tropical Diseases of Latin America and the Caribbean: A Review of Disease Burden and Distribution and a Roadmap for Control and Elimination
2008

Neglected Tropical Diseases in Latin America and the Caribbean

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Hotez Peter J., Bottazzi Maria Elena, Franco-Paredes Carlos, Ault Steven K., Periago Mirta Roses

Primary Institution: The George Washington University and Sabin Vaccine Institute

Hypothesis

What is the burden and distribution of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Latin America and the Caribbean, and how can they be controlled or eliminated?

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant burden of neglected tropical diseases in Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasizing the need for targeted control and elimination strategies.

Supporting Evidence

  • Neglected tropical diseases are among the most common infections affecting the poorest populations in Latin America and the Caribbean.
  • Approximately 40% of the population in the region lives below the poverty line, contributing to the prevalence of NTDs.
  • Control and elimination of NTDs are recognized as priorities for achieving sustainable poverty reduction.

Takeaway

Neglected tropical diseases are very common in poor areas of Latin America and the Caribbean, and we need to work together to help get rid of them.

Methodology

The review was conducted using the online database PubMed from 2000 to 2007, focusing on neglected tropical diseases in the specified regions.

Limitations

Some important NTDs lack complete disease burden estimates, and the review may not cover all relevant literature.

Participant Demographics

The study focuses on impoverished populations in Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly indigenous and African descent communities.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pntd.0000300

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