Holidays in the Sun and the Caribbean’s Forgotten Burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases
2008
Neglected Tropical Diseases in the Caribbean
Editorial
Author Information
Author(s): Peter J. Hotez
Primary Institution: Sabin Vaccine Institute and Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, George Washington University Medical Center
Conclusion
Despite the wealth generated by tourism in the Caribbean, the poorest populations continue to suffer from neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
Supporting Evidence
- Almost 40 million people live in the Caribbean, with many suffering from neglected tropical diseases.
- High rates of lymphatic filariasis and schistosomiasis are found in the Caribbean, particularly in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
- Despite the wealth from tourism, little money reaches the poorest people suffering from NTDs.
- Mass drug administration has shown success in eliminating lymphatic filariasis in Haiti.
Takeaway
Many people in the Caribbean are sick from diseases that are often ignored, even though the area makes a lot of money from tourists. We can help them by donating just a little money.
Participant Demographics
The article discusses populations in the Caribbean, particularly those living in poverty or of African descent.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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