Background of the Study
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of infectious diseases that primarily affect populations in low-income countries, often in areas with poor sanitation, limited healthcare access, and high poverty rates (Lalloo et al., 2023). These diseases, including but not limited to river blindness, leprosy, schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminths, are termed “neglected” because they have historically been overlooked in global health agendas, despite their significant impact on public health, social development, and economic productivity (Suleiman et al., 2024). In Nigeria, NTDs are a significant public health challenge, particularly in the northern states, including Adamawa State, where poor access to clean water, inadequate sanitation, and limited health infrastructure exacerbate the burden of these diseases (Ibrahim et al., 2023).
Adamawa State, located in northeastern Nigeria, has experienced high rates of NTDs, particularly soil-transmitted helminths, schistosomiasis, and onchocerciasis, affecting both rural and urban populations (Mohammed et al., 2023). The region's vulnerability to NTDs is influenced by several factors, including a lack of public awareness, limited health education, and difficulty accessing treatment due to infrastructural challenges and geographical barriers (Bello et al., 2023). Furthermore, the burden of NTDs in Adamawa is compounded by a lack of coordination between government and non-governmental organizations in providing comprehensive treatment and prevention programs (Aliyu et al., 2024).
This study aims to investigate the burden of neglected tropical diseases in Adamawa State, with a focus on the prevalence, socio-economic impacts, and barriers to effective treatment and prevention. The findings will help inform public health policies and improve efforts to control NTDs in the region.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing global recognition of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) as a public health priority, Adamawa State continues to face significant challenges in controlling and reducing the burden of these diseases. High rates of infection, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and socio-economic factors all contribute to the persistence of NTDs in the state. This study aims to assess the extent of NTDs in Adamawa State, identifying the factors that contribute to their burden and the challenges faced in addressing these diseases.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the prevalence of neglected tropical diseases in Adamawa State.
2. To examine the socio-economic impact of NTDs on affected communities in Adamawa State.
3. To evaluate the effectiveness of existing interventions and identify barriers to the prevention and treatment of NTDs in Adamawa State.
Research Questions
1. What is the prevalence of neglected tropical diseases in Adamawa State?
2. What are the socio-economic impacts of NTDs on affected individuals and communities in Adamawa State?
3. What are the barriers to the effective prevention and treatment of NTDs in Adamawa State?
Research Hypotheses
1. The prevalence of neglected tropical diseases is higher in rural areas of Adamawa State compared to urban areas.
2. The socio-economic burden of NTDs in Adamawa State is significantly higher in communities with limited access to healthcare services.
3. Existing public health interventions for NTDs in Adamawa State are not fully effective due to barriers such as poor health education and lack of resources.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on communities in Adamawa State affected by neglected tropical diseases, assessing the prevalence, socio-economic impact, and effectiveness of interventions. Data will be collected through surveys, interviews with healthcare providers and affected individuals, and a review of existing health records. Limitations include the potential underreporting of cases due to stigma or lack of healthcare access, and challenges in accessing remote areas for data collection.
Definition of Terms
• Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs): A group of infectious diseases that primarily affect populations in low-income countries, including diseases like schistosomiasis, leprosy, and onchocerciasis.
• Prevalence: The total number of existing cases of a disease in a population at a given time.
• Socio-economic Impact: The effects of a disease on individuals' livelihoods, including lost productivity, medical costs, and social consequences.
• Public Health Interventions: Programs and actions taken by governments and organizations to prevent and control diseases within a population.
Background of the Study
Gerrymandering, the manipulation of electoral boundaries to favor particular political parties or g...
Background of the Study:
Access to quality technical education is a fundamental driver of socio-economic development, parti...
Background of the Study
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are a critical interface between retail banks and their customers,...
Background of the study
Class scheduling is a crucial aspect of academic administration, and in large educational institutions like Kogi...
Background of the Study
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases a...
Background of the Study
Phonetic articulation is a key factor in effective public speaking, especially during Nigerian cul...
Background of the study:
Peer pressure is a significant factor influencing adolescent behavior, particularly in secondary schools. In Mai...
Background of the study
Promotional pricing strategies are widely used in the beauty industry to attract consumers and s...
INTRODUCTION
The most recent trend in small company operations necessitates simple access to the locati...
Background of the study
Virtual product experiences have emerged as a revolutionary component of digital marketing, p...