Issue Brief NTDs Part 3: Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, is a widespread parasitic disease affecting over 200 million people globally, mainly in Africa, South America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The disease is transmitted through contact with contaminated water, where freshwater snails act as intermediate hosts. Key prevention measures include access to clean water, improved sanitation, and health education. Mass drug administration (MDA) programs using praziquantel are also vital in controlling the spread. Despite efforts to combat the disease, schistosomiasis continues to pose a signifcant public health challenge, impacting the quality of life in affected regions. In this 3 part of the Issue Brief on the NTD Toolbox you will find material regarding prevention and control, clinical diagnsotics and trianing material on Schistosomiasis.

Launch NCD Toolbox

This online library is now further extended with the NCD Toolbox. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. They account for over 74% of death globally, especially in low- and middle income countries. NCDs are the result of a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental and behavioural factors. Many NCDs, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, are largely preventable through lifestyle changes. The treatment of NCDs is expensive and often requires long-term care which is why education about prevention mechanisms is important to empower individuals to take proactive measures. The NCDs represented within this toolbox are cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and malignancies (such as pediatric cancers or gynaecological cancers). The toolbox supplies information about key resources about NCDs, documents on diagnostic and treatment options, training and education material, knowledge about prevention and control at community level, regional reports and statisitcs, and facts about risk factors of NCDs. 

Caregiver Toolbox Video

Caregivers have a major impact on maintaining health services and improving the health status of the population. The daily work in nursing, however, requires good organization, a high sense of responsibility, and continuous education on the latest standards of care. MEDBOX produced a video that is specifically addressed to caregivers. It explains the structure and content of the Caregiver Toolbox, tells stories from caregivers around the world and shows how the online library can simplify their work. Please find the video.

Planetary Health Toolbox

"Planetary Health " works in an interdisciplinary way and deals with the interrelationships of human health, the economic and social system, and the natural habitat of our planet. The Planetary Health Toolbox includes topics such as One Health, Climate change, biodiversity, and impact on health. We have published two Issue Briefs one on "Climate Change & Heath"   and one on "Planetary Health Basics" to raise awareness about heat waves as a result of climate change and its impact on health. Be curious and take a look at our introduction video and into the toolbox.