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

Abstract

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. This review calls for integrated Skin NTD action, using One Health to analyze complex human, animal, and environmental transmission. It highlights knowledge gaps and urges expanded, standardized diagnostics and systematic data collection on social/financial barriers for patient-centered control.