Introductory Chapter: Neglected Tropical Diseases – A Pending Issue

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are the result of changing patterns in health that have created gaps in the attention of specific problems in specific populations. As a result, today, over 1 billion inhabitants are at risk of being affected by these diseases in many parts of the world. This chapter highlights the importance of addressing Neglected Tropical Diseases and to prioritize its solutions in the long term. Although challenging, this is an issue that cannot be postponed in the global agenda and needs to be properly addressed with the implementation of comprehensive interventions for the ultimate benefit of those who are most vulnerable.