Global aspirations, local realities: the role of social science research in controlling neglected tropical diseases.

ABSTRACT: Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are both drivers and manifestations of poverty and social inequality. Increased advocacy efforts since the mid-2000s have led to ambitious new control and elimination targets set for 2020 by the World Health Organisation. While these global aspirations represent significant policy momentum, there are multifaceted challenges in controlling infectious diseases in resource-poor local contexts that need to be acknowledged, understood and engaged. However a number of recent publications have emphasised the "neglected" status of applied social science research on NTDs. In light of the 2020 targets, this paper explores the social science/NTD literature and unpacks some of the ways in which social inquiry can help support effective and sustainable interventions.

SUBMITTER: Bardosh K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4197218 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature