Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Global Network do?
The Global Network is a member organization that gives NTD-focused organizations the opportunity to work together toward a solution for ne­glected tropical diseases. The members of the Global Network work together to build awareness, support, and commitment among global policy makers, funding organiza­tions, and the general public.
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What does NTDs stand for?
NTDs are neglected tropical diseases.  NTDs are most often found in poverty-stricken countries and afflict over one billion individuals.  The seven most common NTDs are ascaris, hookworm, trichuris, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, and trachoma.  Neglected tropical diseases are very prevalent, but also very easy and inexpensive to treat, as it costs an average of $0.50 per person per year to treat these diseases.
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What is meant by ‘neglected'?
Some common characteristics of neglected diseases include:

• Prevalent in impoverished areas of developing countries
• Impair childhood growth, intellectual development, and education
• Affect the poorest of the poor
• Promote the continuation of poverty
• Cause disfigurement and debilitation
• Many people who suffer from these diseases experience shame and disgrace and have difficulty fending for themselves
• Spread easily due to poor living conditions and tropical environments
• Located in places with limited access to health care and treatment

If NTDs don't kill, then why do they matter?
While NTDs do not have a very high mortality rate, the carry with them the ability to disable, disfigure, and stigmatize.  People with NTDs often have to stop working and doing normal activities because their disease has handicapped them.  NTDs prevent a billion individuals from carrying on a normal and long life. 

How do NTDs relate to Malaria, Tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS (the 'Big Three')?
There is some evidence that shows that the 'Big Three' may be linked to helminth infections, which is a common type of NTD.  Regardless, NTDs and the Big Three are all more common among poverty stricken regions and in many areas in Africa.  Specifically, NTDs have a huge geographical overlap with Malaria.  Click here to view maps and more information regarding NTDs and the Big Three.

How is the Global Network related to Sabin Vaccine Institute?
Sabin Institute is the Secretariat for the Global Network.  Sabin Institute helps speed up and organize the actions of the major NTD memberships involved in the Global Network, in order to achieve certain objectives. 
Visit the website for more information Sabin Institute.

Where are most NTDs found and who is afflicted with these diseases?
The most common place for NTDs to be found is in Africa.  To view the exact locations of NTDs, you can look at our page on Global Distribution.  Those who suffer from NTDs are often poverty stricken, living on less than $2 a day, which explains why they don't have the chance to treat these diseases. 

Who can I speak with to find out more information?
To find out more information, you can email the Global Network at gnntdc@sabin.org with any questions you may have.

How can I get involved?
There are many ways to get involved with the Global Network.  By contributing, volunteering, or simply telling your friends the story about NTDs you are helping.  Click here to contribute and email us at gnntdc@sabin.org to find out more information about volunteering.  Remember - just making sure the world knows about NTDs can make a huge difference.