Integrated action for skin NTDs: Deconstructing transmission, addressing knowledge gaps, and championing one health strategies

Journal article : Review

Skin Neglected Tropical Diseases (skin NTDs) are a critical, underestimated source of chronic pathology, severely impacting vulnerable, rural populations with poor healthcare access. These diseases heighten the risk of systemic infection, amputation, and premature mortality. Their visibility and co-endemic nature present a pivotal opportunity for integrated diagnostics and management at the primary care level. Aligned with the WHO roadmap, this review advocates for a robust One Health framework, examining the complex interplay of human, animal, and environmental transmission factors. We contrast diseases with understood transmission against those requiring research. Leveraging the skin as a common pathway, we argue for strategic, integrated public health action to substantially improve patient outcomes globally.

Authors: Mosi, L; Acharya, B; Asiedu, K; Bamisaiye, A; Benbow, ME

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Nature Research
• Journal: Nature Communications
• Volume: 17
• Issue: 1
• Article number: 2271
• Publication date: 2026-02-03
• Acceptance date: 2026-01-20
• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-69065-0
• EISSN: 2041-1723
• ISSN: 2041-1723
• Language: English
• Keywords: Action (physics); Visibility; Health care; Public health; Transmission (telecommunications); Call to action; Disease
• Subtype: Review