Update on Neglected Tropical Diseases of the Western Hemisphere

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are responsible for millions of deaths and disabilities yearly, around the globe. The largest burden of these diseases falls on communities with poor access to basic sanitation, healthcare facilities, and educational programs. This review focuses on advances in vaccination, treatment and control programs over the past decade for the major NTDs of the Western Hemisphere: malaria, schistosomiasis, leishmaniasis, ankylostomiasis, lymphatic filiariasis, Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis), and onchocerciasis. The discussion centers on challenges for NTD eradication and prospects for the future.