Eliminating NTDs and advancing Inclusive Eye Health
In 2024, great progress was made toward the elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Nigeria. Surveys showed that in 13 out of 14 Local Government Areas (LGAs), annual treatment for lymphatic filariasis (LF) is no longer required. As a result, over 2 million people are no longer at risk. This success was made possible through strong partnerships between the government, Health and Development Support Programme (HANDS) Nigeria, CBM Global, and local communities. Most of these areas have received annual treatments since 2011.
However, many individuals already affected still require holistic support, including lymphedema care, hydrocele surgery, mental health services, and livelihood support.
We are also awaiting survey results to assess the progress of eliminating onchocerciasis (river blindness). If successful, this could bring an end to nearly 30 years of Mectizan® treatment in the area.
CBM Global continued its partnership with the Arclight Project at the University of St. Andrews to strengthen primary eye care. For example, in Madagascar, 98 healthcare workers across 69 facilities were trained to use the Arclight tool during vaccination campaigns. In just two months, they screened 4,376 infants and identified two cases of retinoblastoma, a childhood eye cancer.
While fundal reflex testing is standard in many countries, its high cost limits access at the primary care level. The low-cost Arclight ophthalmoscope enables early detection of blinding eye diseases, supporting timely treatment and better outcomes for children.