Revisiting What Constitutes a Neglected Tropical Disease?

Area of Science:

• Tropical medicine
• Infectious diseases
• Public health

Background:

• Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are infectious diseases disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries, exacerbating poverty.
• NTDs impact child development, pregnancy outcomes, worker productivity, and overall quality of life.
• These diseases can also affect vulnerable populations within high-income countries.

Discussion:

• PLOS NTDs aims to publish research covering all aspects of NTDs, including pathogenesis, clinical studies, epidemiology, and control strategies.
• The journal also considers work relevant to public health policy and the socioeconomic impact of NTDs.
• NTDs present significant challenges to equity and economic stability due to their stigmatizing features and debilitating effects.

Key Insights:

• This editorial clarifies the scope of research accepted by PLOS NTDs.
• Focus remains on diseases that promote poverty and negatively affect quality of life.
• The journal encourages submissions that address the multifaceted nature of NTDs.

Outlook:

• PLOS NTDs seeks to advance the understanding and control of neglected tropical diseases.
• Future publications will contribute to improved public health policies and interventions.
• The journal aims to foster research that mitigates the impact of NTDs on global health and economic stability.