The Invisible Enemy: A Comprehensive Review of Vector-Borne Parasites in Neglected Tropical Diseases

Abstract

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) represent a diverse group of infectious conditions that disproportionately affect over 1.5 billion people globally, primarily in impoverished tropical and subtropical regions. Among these, vector-borne parasitic NTDs constitute a significant subgroup, transmitted through arthropod vectors such as mosquitoes, sand flies, triatomine bugs, and ticks. These diseases, including malaria, dengue, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, and Chagas disease, impose devastating health, social, and economic burdens on marginalized communities. This review explores the complex epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and clinical manifestations of key vector-borne parasitic NTDs, emphasizing their disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations. It examines the multifaceted challenges in disease control, including insecticide resistance, climate change, and limited healthcare access. The review also highlights innovative strategies in vector control, diagnostics, and treatment, aligned with the World Health Organization's 2021–2030 road map. Through a synthesis of current research, this paper underscores the urgent need for integrated, multidisciplinary approaches that combine biomedical interventions with socioeconomic support to reduce the global burden of these invisible enemies.