Reframing neglect in neglected tropical diseases and related environmental determinants: A scoping review of photovoice studies

Background

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect over one billion people worldwide and are closely linked to environmental determinants, including unsafe water, poor sanitation, inadequate housing, and vector-borne exposure. Yet, the voices of affected communities remain insufficiently centred in research or policy. Photovoice, a participatory visual method, has potential to reframe the neglect of NTDs by centring affected communities and their lived experiences. This scoping review aims to explore the application of photovoice in NTD research and its related environmental determinants.

Methodology/findings

Six electronic databases were searched using terms related to photovoice and NTDs and reported in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. Data from thirteen included studies were extracted and synthesised using thematic analysis. Most studies were conducted in Africa and focussed on skin-related NTDs. Photovoice methods were adopted across studies, including variations in participant training, equipment, and discussion formats, while retaining its core principles of ethical practice, participant-driven image production, and reflective dialogue. The degree of participation and power-sharing varied across studies. Community members were engaged as co-researchers to differing extent, with uneven inclusion across gender and age groups and limited transparency in shared analysis and decision-making. Reported outcomes included increased visibility of lived experiences, strengthened participant confidence, enhanced community dialogue, locally initiated actions, and contributions to programme reflection or policy discussions. Nevertheless, few studies implemented dissemination strategies such as exhibitions, community meetings, booklets, videos and policy dialogues to create visibility, which limits opportunities to influence policy.

Conclusion/significance

Photovoice in NTDs research and related environmental and vector-borne determinants demonstrates the potential to reframe neglect by successfully transforming invisibility into evidence and turning community voices into advocacy, while inclusive participation, skilled facilitation, and structured pathways are needed in future studies to translate this visibility into lasting policy impact.