African scientists gather in Kenya to discuss global response to NTDs

"African scientists from key research institutions and universities have challenged governments to take serious the issues of neglected and tropical disease to curb millions of deaths among the poor," Xinhua reports. More than 50 researchers met this week in Kisumu, Kenya, at the 6th Annual Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Symposium, where they "said action is needed from the government, donors, and drug companies to reduce death associated with NTDs," the news service writes. "The researchers said even with massive deaths associated with NTDs, challenges remain in reaching those affected," as the diseases are "perceived to only affect the poor who are regarded as less important in the society" and do not have the ability to purchase treatments, Xinhua adds, and writes, "The meeting was centered on the theme making elimination feasible, [and] 'neglect no more' in line with [Kenya Medical Research Institute] efforts to control the effects of neglected tropical diseases in the region" (12/11).