Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of chronic infectious diseases that primarily affect tropical and subtropical regions, particularly among the world's most vulnerable and marginalized communities. The control of many NTDs poses significant challenges to healthcare systems, not only in low-income and tropical regions but increasingly worldwide, driven by climate change and associated factors such as vector migration and urbanization. To address this issue, a comprehensive One Health approach integrating human, animal, and environmental health along with preventive treatment management is essential. In line with this global effort and as part of its public health mission, the Pasteur Institute of
Iran commemorated World NTD Day by hosting the First National Conference on Prevalent NTDs in Iran, organized by its Immunotherapy and Leishmania Vaccine Research Department. The main objective of the conference was to convene experts, researchers, and students to share recent scientific advances in the control and elimination of NTDs in Iran. The event underscored the critical need for multisectoral collaboration and integrated strategies to accelerate progress toward national NTD elimination goals. Conference structure and highlights: Key collaborators included the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, the Center for Training and Research on Skin and Leprosy Diseases, and Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The conference agenda addressed key NTDs prevalent in Iran, including parasitic diseases (leishmaniasis, urinary schistosomiasis, fasciolosis, hydatidosis), bacterial infections (trachoma, leprosy), and significant viral threats (rabies, dengue, and chikungunya). The conference was conducted in a hybrid format to maximize participation and ensure broad accessibility. Conclusion/impact: The conference highlighted the critical importance of convening regular events to foster multisectoral collaboration among key stakeholders, including government bodies, academic institutions, and research centers, to control, eliminate, and eradicate NTDs in Iran. The feasibility of this goal is evident in recent global successes; for example, a recent WHO report confirmed that Bangladesh has successfully eliminated visceral leishmaniasis as a public health problem. Furthermore, sustained national and international efforts, as demonstrated by global progress against Guinea worm disease and lymphatic filariasis, reinforce that NTD elimination is achievable through such coordinated action.
