Neglected Tropical Diseases in Nepal: A Closer Look at Their Prevalence and Control Efforts

Introduction
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) continue to pose significant health challenges in Nepal, especially among vulnerable populations. According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), these diseases affect millions. Urgent attention is required to meet global elimination goals. This blog explores the insights from the EDCD report. It focuses on the prevalence and control strategies. It also highlights the progress made in combating NTDs.

Key Facts About NTDs in Nepal

1. Number of Affected Individuals:
   Over 30 million people in Nepal are at risk of NTDs. Significant cases of visceral leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, leprosy, and other diseases are reported across the country.
2. Commonly Reported NTDs:
   • Lymphatic Filariasis (LF): Over 44,000 cases have been identified, with 95 districts implementing Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaigns.
   • Leprosy: Despite a decline in cases, over 2,800 active cases are currently being managed.
   • Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH): These parasitic infections remain prevalent, with efforts to reach school-aged children for deworming programs.
3. High-Risk Regions:
   • Provinces such as Province 2, Lumbini, and Sudurpaschim have reported a higher prevalence of NTDs. This is due to environmental factors. Social and economic factors also contribute.
   • Urban areas, particularly slums and poorly planned settlements, are hotspots for STH and leishmaniasis.

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Major Control and Elimination Efforts

Nepal has made significant strides in combating NTDs by adopting global best practices and localized strategies:

1. Mass Drug Administration (MDA)

• Nepal has implemented MDA campaigns to combat lymphatic filariasis, covering over 44 million people between 2018 and 2024.
• Regular deworming programs target children in schools to reduce the burden of STH.

2. Integrated Vector Management

• Use of insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying in areas prone to visceral leishmaniasis.
• Awareness campaigns on vector control methods to minimize transmission.

3. Case Detection and Treatment

• Active surveillance for early detection of leprosy and LF cases in remote regions.
• Free provision of multidrug therapy for leprosy, along with surgical care for complications caused by LF.

4. Community Engagement

• Involvement of Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) in health education and drug distribution programs.
• Collaboration with local governments to ensure equitable healthcare access in marginalized communities.

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Progress Toward Elimination Goals

Nepal is making notable progress toward eliminating several NTDs:

• Lymphatic Filariasis: The MDA program has successfully reduced transmission rates in many districts, with post-MDA validation surveys ongoing.
• Visceral Leishmaniasis: Incidence rates have declined in endemic districts through vector control and timely treatment.
• Leprosy: Nepal aims to achieve the WHO-defined elimination target of less than 1 case per 10,000 population.

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Challenges in Combating NTDs

Despite significant progress, several challenges remain:

• Logistical Issues: Ensuring drug delivery to remote areas and maintaining cold-chain storage for temperature-sensitive medications.
• Lack of Awareness: Misconceptions and stigma associated with diseases like leprosy hinder treatment-seeking behavior.
• Funding Gaps: Insufficient resources for sustained interventions, especially in low-income regions.

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Call to Action

1. Strengthen Partnerships: Collaboration between government bodies, NGOs, and international organizations is crucial for achieving NTD elimination.
2. Increase Awareness: Community education campaigns should focus on reducing stigma and promoting early diagnosis.
3. Expand Healthcare Access: Ensure that remote and marginalized populations receive equitable access to diagnosis and treatment services.

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For more details, you can access the full EDCD report HERE.