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<p>The UK aims to improve the provision of basic health services for the poor in developing countries by strengthening health systems, training health workers and increasing access to essential medicines. This addresses a range of health problems including neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). In addition, UK-funded education, water, sanitation and hygiene programmes have an impact on public health and NTDs. NTDs are both a cause and consequence of poverty, affecting the hardest to reach people, and leading to impoverishment through disability, stigma and lost livelihoods.</p><p>Since 2009, the UK has funded global NTD programmes including eradication of guinea worm, control of lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis and schistosomiasis, and research into NTDs. In the last 12 months, the UK has launched new programmes targeting neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). These include the global mapping of trachoma, support to strengthen WHO's NTD team and taking an integrated, health systems based approach, to tackle NTDs in both Nigeria and South Sudan.</p> |