Fight Against Neglected Infectious Diseases in Togo with Geographic Information Systems

Neglected tropical diseases (NTD) mainly affect population living in poverty. In this study, we present the Project “Ending the neglect” with the main objective of applying technologies associated with geographic information systems (GIS) to help eradicate this type of infectious diseases. Specifically, this study determines the spatial relationships between patients and the spatial distribution of three neglected diseases (leprosy, Buruli ulcer and yaws) and improves resources to eradicate them in Togo. To this end, different physical and geographic variables are analyzed together with variables more closely linked to the infection. Among the main results expected to be obtained is the identification of possible infection routes or hot spots of contagion routes that can help to plan and manage control campaigns for these three diseases. In the second phase, the geoprocessing results will also be used to assess the distance of the hot spots to healthcare centers. A delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis of leprosy, Buruli ulcer and yaws results in irreversible disabilities causing permanent impairments as well as stigma and discrimination. With GIS, the best use of the limited funds for controlling these diseases can be guaranteed and challenges in the universal health coverage in Togo can be identified. The results obtained in this project may help in future to develop similar strategies in other countries to manage health resources more efficiently to eradicate other NTDs.