SCI Foundation is now Unlimit Health. Learn more about what the change means for our ongoing efforts to eliminate neglected tropical diseases

Neglected tropical diseases

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of parasitic, bacterial, fungal, viral and protozoan infections, in addition to envenoming, that affect over one billion people in the world’s poorest and most marginalised communities.

Parasitic worm infections can have a hugely detrimental effect on individuals, including: reduced productivity, internal organ damage, impaired child development, reduced school attendance, increased risk of HIV in women and infertility.

We work to end parasitic disease in affected communities globally. We partner with ministries of health to develop country-owned solutions that eliminate preventable infections. Our area of focus is the elimination of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases (intestinal worms).

Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia or ‘snail fever’, is a disease caused by parasites (worms called schistosomes) carried by freshwater snails.

Female genital schistosomiasis

Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a disease manifestation of schistosomiasis caused by the Schistosoma haematobium, a waterborne parasite that affects both the urinary and genital tract of infected individuals

Intestinal worms

Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) are infections caused by intestinal parasites. These infections are among the most common worldwide, and affect the poorest and most marginalised communities.

Parasitic worms

Parasitic worm infections include schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections.