Prioritising neglected diseases related to poverty
BMJ 2005; 331 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.331.7507.12 (Published 30 June 2005) Cite this as: BMJ 2005;331:12All rapid responses
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Editor,
At the same time, i would also like to draw the global attention to
Kala-azar (Visceral Leishmaniasis) problem in India. Over here, we call it
as one of the "Orphan diseases" as it is poor man's disease. Nobody seems
to be interested in it. Western countries neglect it, because the disease
is largely restricted poor countries. Endemic countries neglect it,
because it is largely restricted poor and vulnerable sections of the
society. Industries neglect it, as it does not appeal to them
commercially. Consequently R&D is more or less stagnant in developing
new drugs that are effective and affordable to fight the disease. We still
are forced to continue with sodium antimony drugs since middle of the last
centuary.
On closer scurtiny, one can appreciate why Kala-azar is called poor
man's disease. Overwhelming cases come from third world countries. The
annual estimate for the incidence and prevalence of kala-azar cases
worldwide is 0.5 million and 2.5 million, respectively. Of these, 90% of
the confirmed cases occur in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sudan[1].India
accounts for the major share of global burden of Kala-azar cases. Within
India, over 90% of cases come from two of the most poorest states in
India, namely Bihar and Jharkhand. Ironically, in these states too,it is
the tribal and maginalised sections of the population that are most
vulnerable to this deadly disease.
Rajan R Patil
:email <rajanpatil@yahoo.com>
Reference
1.Bora D,.Epidemiology of visceral leishmaniasis in India. Natl Med J
India. 1999 Mar-Apr;12(2):62-8.
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests
Malaria and Kala Azar- Time to be Serious
Even after so many efforts in Malaria and Kala Azar, including
Artesimin, DipStick/Strip Tests, impregnated bednets and oral drugs like
Miltefosine- patients still suffer in increasing numbers. Only last month
the Catholic Bishop of Bhagalpur died of falciparum malaria in Bihar.
Surely it is time to get these newer methods to those who need them.
Otherwise disaffection with the current world order will increase. Today's
system will go the way of Rome. Efforts to support orphan diseases and
research in these fields needs support now!
Competing interests:
Have worked in a malaria and Kala Azar affected area for 15 years
Competing interests: No competing interests