Unite, Act, Eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases in 2026

The world will observe World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day on January 30, 2026, to raise awareness of a group of preventable and treatable conditions that continue to affect millions.

Globally, NTDs affect around one billion people.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) estimates that more than 200 million people in the region are affected by one or more NTDs.

These diseases include Chagas disease, leprosy, leishmaniasis, trachoma, and schistosomiasis, among others. NTDs often lead to lifelong disabilities, stigma, and increased hardship, perpetuating cycles of poverty.

To commemorate this year's observance, PAHO emphasized the importance of collaboration among governments, health workers, and civil society organizations in advancing control and elimination efforts.

As of early 2026, 58 countries have successfully eliminated at least one NTD.

Countries such as Chile, Uruguay, much of Central America, and parts of the Caribbean are reporting low or zero new cases and are nearing elimination milestones.

However, challenges persist, especially in Brazil, which accounts for over 90% of some instances in the region, such as leprosy.

In the United States, government estimates suggest around 300,000 people live with Chagas disease, and Florida reported an increase in leprosy cases in 2025.

The organization promotes community involvement under the theme "Involving communities: A hands-on approach to neglected diseases," aligning with the global WHO call to "Unite. Act. Eliminate."

In a Q&A released on January 29, 2026, by PAHO, Ana Lucianez Perez, PAHO Regional Advisor on Neglected Infectious Diseases, shared insights from her work supporting countries in the region. She focuses on strengthening surveillance systems, enhancing data collection and management, and addressing gaps to reduce the overall burden of NTDs.

She highlighted progress through initiatives like PAHO's Disease Elimination Initiative, which aims to eliminate more than 30 communicable diseases and related conditions by 2030, including 12 NTDs.

The 2026 commemoration also featured a webinar titled "Bridging Gaps in Neglected Tropical Diseases Data," co-organized by PAHO, the Chagas Coalition, and the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative.

This event explored strategies to improve data collection, management, and dissemination, in collaboration with health systems, civil society, and researchers, to inform more effective public health responses.

While progress has been made, World NTD Day serves as a reminder that these ancient diseases can be defeated through united action, equitable health services, and sustained political commitment, says the PAHO.