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What We DoFight Disease
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs)are a grouping of diseases that persist exclusively in the poorest and most marginalized communities in the developing world. NTDs thrive in slums, rural villages and war-torn areas that have poor sanitation and unsafe water, primarily affecting people and communities that have no power or voice to advocate for their health.
Though NTDs have been largely eliminated in most countries, over a billion people—a sixth of the world's population—are affected by at least one or more of these preventable and treatable diseases. Because NTDs often have grave implications both physically and socially, these diseases essentially deepen the poverty of poor people and increase the desperation in struggling communities.
Success Story: IMA at work
For 15 years, a 50-year-old Togolese woman had suffered from painful swelling After learning proper techniques for washing, exercising and elevating her leg, her condition is greatly improved and her swelling is minimal. |
Targeted NTDs
Of the 14 neglected tropical diseases identified by the World Health Organization, IMA World Health's programs currently focus on the prevention, treatment, control and/or elimination of three major NTDs:
| Lymphatic Filariasis (LF): LF is debilitating parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes in some of the most impoverished areas in the world. A common characteristic of LF is elephantiasis, or painful swelling of the extremities, which can greatly hinder mobility and cause severe social ramifications for those who suffer from it. Learn more |
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| Onchocerciasis (River Blindness): Onchocerciasis is caused by a parasitic worm that is transmitted through the bite of an infected blackfly. Found most often in rural agricultural areas, the disease can cause rashes, bumps under the skin, eye lesions and permanent blindness. Learn more |
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| Soil Transmitted Helminthes (STH): STH are intestinal worms that enter the body through contaminated food, water and soil in areas with poor sanitation systems. Children are most susceptible to infection, which can cause anemia, vitamin A deficiency, loss of appetite and long term effects such as restricted growth and difficulty performing in school. Learn more |
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Trachoma: Trachoma is the result of an eye infection that is spread from person to person. It's commonly found where there are water shortages, numerous flies, and crowded living conditions. Infections often begin during childhood and if left untreated, it can lead to irreversible blindness between 30 to 40 years of age. Learn more |
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Mass Drug Administration (MDA) is the administration of safe and effective drugs to entire populations, irrespective of disease status, in order to control, prevent or eliminate common or widespread disease. IMA currently administers MDA programs in Haiti, Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania. Click here to learn about IMA's |
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Morbidity Management refers to the treatment or management of an existing disease or illness. IMA has implemented morbidity management programs in India and Togo to improve the lives of people who suffer from LF. A significant aspect of the programs involves training patients, family members and community volunteers how to properly wash, exercise and manage the disabilities related to LF. Click here to learn more about IMA's |
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DRC |
Haiti |
India |
Tanzania |
Togo |
Recently, IMA World Health President & CEO Rick Santos delivered a sermon at the Westminster Christian Unity Service entitled "Victory...
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"I will wear them to school."
