Which of the following is a characteristic of neglected tropical diseases?

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are often overlooked in healthcare planning, which is a key characteristic that underscores their neglect in terms of research funding, treatment availability, and public health priority. These diseases primarily affect impoverished populations, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, where limited resources lead to inadequate healthcare and prevention strategies. Because they are not a significant focus for the pharmaceutical industry or governments, there is insufficient attention paid to addressing them, which perpetuates cycles of disease and poverty in affected communities.

The perception and reality surrounding NTDs result in a lack of visibility compared to other diseases that receive more attention. This neglect can lead to a high burden of morbidity and disability for those affected, emphasizing the need for improved healthcare policies that prioritize these diseases. By understanding that NTDs are often overlooked in planning, one can appreciate the broader implications for global health equity and access to care, which are crucial for controlling and eliminating these diseases.

In addition, the other statements do not accurately reflect the characteristics of neglected tropical diseases. Not all NTDs are fatal, they do not exclusively affect tourists, and they are primarily infectious rather than non-infectious.