Marking World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the urgent need to address the stigma, discrimination, and mental health challenges faced by millions living with NTDs. Over one billion people are affected by these diseases, many of whom experience physical impairments or disfigurement from conditions such as leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, cutaneous leishmaniasis, mycetoma, and noma, making them particularly vulnerable to social exclusion and mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicidal behavior. Misconceptions about contagion and infection further exacerbate discrimination, leaving many without the care and support they need.
To tackle this gap, WHO launched its first global guide on the Essential Care Package (ECP), providing health service leaders with evidence-based interventions to promote mental health, assess and manage mental health conditions, and reduce stigma at individual, community, and health system levels. The initiative aligns with the campaign theme “Unite. Act. Eliminate.”, emphasizing that true NTD elimination requires freeing people not only from disease but also from shame, isolation, and despair.
Despite historic progress—including a reduction in people requiring NTD interventions to 1.4 billion and 58 countries eliminating at least one NTD—funding has declined sharply, with global official development assistance falling 41% between 2018 and 2023. This threatens to reverse gains that have proven both achievable and cost-effective, as every US$1 invested in preventive chemotherapy yields an estimated US$25 return. World NTD Day 2026 calls for renewed funding, integrated health services including mental health care, and global collaboration to safeguard progress, accelerate innovation, and ensure equitable support for affected communities.
