UN calls for rights-based response to neglected tropical diseases

Overview

The UN Human Rights Council has adopted Resolution 62/21, urging countries to treat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) as issues of health, equality, and human rights. The resolution emphasizes the integration of NTD services into primary health care and universal health coverage.

Background

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect over 1 billion people globally, disproportionately impacting those in poverty and underserved communities. These diseases can lead to significant disability and stigma.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the source material.

Key Findings

• The UN resolution calls for integrating NTD services into primary health care and universal health coverage.
• NTDs are described as preventable and treatable conditions that affect marginalized populations.
• Countries are urged to protect NTD programs during health emergencies and humanitarian crises.
• The resolution emphasizes the need for disability-inclusive NTD programs, including rehabilitation and mental health care.
• Governments should collect disaggregated data to identify disparities in NTD impacts on women and girls.
• International cooperation is encouraged to address climate change impacts on NTD transmission.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should advocate for the integration of NTD services into existing health systems to enhance accessibility. Additionally, addressing the social determinants of health is essential for effective NTD management and reducing stigma associated with these diseases.

Conclusion

The adoption of Resolution 62/21 marks a significant step towards recognizing neglected tropical diseases as a human rights issue, necessitating a comprehensive and inclusive approach to health care.

Related Resources & Content

1. WHO, WHO, 2026 -- Historic resolution on neglected tropical diseases adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council
2. The medicine maker, The medicine maker, 2020 -- Putting Sleeping Sickness to Bed
3. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, The Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- When Surviving Neglected Tropical Diseases Is Not Enough
4. The medicine maker, The medicine maker, 2024 -- A New Model for R&D
5. the medicine maker — Access All Areas
6. Historic resolution on neglected tropical diseases adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council
7. WHO updates treatment guidelines on visceral and post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis
8. Safety of integrated mass drug administration of azithromycin, albendazole and ivermectin versus standard treatment regimens: a cluster-randomised trial in Ethiopia - PMC