Neglected Infectious Diseases in the Americas: Success Stories and Innovation to Reach the Neediest

Neglected infectious diseases, such as leprosy, intestinal parasites and Chagas disease affect the poorest. They are called "neglected" because of their association with the social determinants of health, for example, inadequate access to health services, education, safe water and basic sanitation, and do not receive enough attention, even though most of these diseases are treatable and can be cured with medication that costs less than one dollar.

In addition, due to the effects of these diseases, those infected suffer stigma and discrimination as some of these diseases cause disfigurement and generate a loss of income for their families. We invite you to learn more about these diseases, as well as the efforts made by countries to address them, and the progress made and the challenges that remain in the Americas in combating these diseases.