WHO Global Report on NTDs

On October 22, the WHO published its Global report on neglected tropical diseases
(NTDs) 2025. The report gives an overview on advances made on the field of NTDs
in 2023-2024. It specifies on the goals achieved that were set in the NTD Road Map
2021-2030, regarding global and cross-cutting indicators. It gives disease-specific
information as well as an overview on regional progress.

Some key points and achievements:

Global indicators:

Of the 90% target reduction in people requiring interventions against
NTDs, 32% were reached until 2023 (compared to 2010).
Of the 75% target reduction in disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs)
related to NTDs, 18% were reached until 2021 (compared to 2015).
Of 100 countries supposed to eliminate at least one NTD, 54 managed
to do so by the end of 2024
So far, none of the two NTDs to be eradicated (Dracunculiasis and
Yaws) have been eradicated

Cross-cutting indicators:

The 75% target reduction in the total number of deaths from vector borne NTDs (relative to 2016) was not achieved. There was an increase in the number of deaths due to dengue, leishmaniasis and chikungunya of 66.4%.
29 of aimed-at 40 countries implemented integrated skin NTD strategies by 2023.
72.6% of people in areas endemic for NTDs had access to at least basic water supply, sanitation and hygiene by 2022 (aim: 100%).

Less than five years away from the 2030 goals set in the NTD Road Map, there is still
a long way to go. The Global Report ends with an overview on how to further the
progress made towards the elimination and eradication of NTDs. This includes e.g. to
strengthen advocacy and funding as well as capacity and awareness building,
intensifying cross-cutting approaches and supporting country ownership.

Tackling NTDs is a huge effort, and goals can only be achieved through international

engagement and support – be it governmental or individual.

Do you want to get engaged with NTDs or are already working in this field? Then let

us know about your thoughts on the progress made towards the 2030 goals in the comments!

Report

Author: Mirna Abd El Aziz, MD