Confronting neglected tropical vector-borne diseases in a changing world: a review of challenges and opportunities

Neglected tropical vector-borne diseases (NTVBDs) pose a significant global health challenge, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. This review begins by defining NTVBDs and their classification criteria, providing a comprehensive overview of their geographical distribution, vectors, and causative agents. Climate change, socioeconomic factors, and land-use changes are changing NTVBD transmission dynamics, with temperature increases expanding vector ranges and creating new transmission hotspots in previously unsuitable regions. The review examines both established vector control approaches and emerging technologies, including CRISPR-based gene editing, artificial intelligence, and microbiome manipulation for NTVBD control. Housing improvements have shown particular promise, with studies demonstrating significant reductions in vector presence through structural interventions. Sustainable control programs emphasize community-based and culturally appropriate interventions, with gender-responsive approaches enhancing both intervention coverage and women's economic empowerment. The review explores the integration of NTVBD control with existing health systems through formal coordination mechanisms and sustainable financing frameworks beyond traditional donor-dependent models. Recent field initiatives addressing the psychological dimensions of NTVBDs highlight the importance of comprehensive approaches that extend beyond physical symptoms. To address the complex challenges of NTVBDs in a rapidly changing world, the review concludes that a multidisciplinary approach integrating technological innovation with social and ecological considerations is essential. Future research should examine the long-term effects of climate change on NTVBD dynamics, develop broadly protective vaccines, optimize integrated control strategies, and investigate innovative funding mechanisms for resource-limited settings.