Lessons from the Field: Integrated survey methodologies for neglected tropical diseases
Emma M Harding-Esch1, Molly A Brady2, Cristiam A Carey Angeles3
1Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|January 28, 2021
Summary
Integrated surveys for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) offer efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Careful planning is crucial to ensure integrated approaches outperform disease-specific surveys in efficiency and data reliability.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- The 2021-2030 Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) roadmap emphasizes integrated, cross-cutting strategies.
- Transitioning from vertical programming to integrated platforms aims to enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and program coverage for NTDs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline key elements for successful integrated surveys for NTDs.
- To identify challenges, opportunities, and threats associated with integrated NTD surveys.
- To provide practical insights based on authors' direct experiences.
Main Methods:
- The article draws on the direct experiences of the authors in conducting integrated surveys.
- Qualitative analysis of practical implementation, challenges, and future considerations for integrated NTD surveys.
Main Results:
- Integrated surveys present multiple advantages over disease-specific approaches.
- Careful planning is essential to realize benefits like improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Potential pitfalls include reduced efficiency, increased costs, and less reliable data if not meticulously planned.
Conclusions:
- Integrated surveys are a promising strategy for NTD control, aligning with global roadmaps.
- Successful implementation hinges on meticulous planning to mitigate risks and maximize benefits.
- Future opportunities and threats require proactive management for sustained success in integrated NTD programming.
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