Approx. USD 4.0 M Invested in Product Development for NTDs – GHIT’s First Investment in the Development of Diagnostics for NTDs

The Global Health Innovative Technology (GHIT) Fund announced today a total investment of approximately JPY 578 million (USD 4.0 million) in four projects for the development of new diagnostics and drugs for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and malaria.

GHIT’s First Investment of Approximately JPY 280 Million (USD 2.0 million¹) in the Development of a Rapid Diagnostic Test for Trachoma

Trachoma, caused by infection of the conjunctiva (upper inner eyelid) by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is a neglected tropical disease (NTD), prevalent primarily in areas with poor sanitation. As the disease progresses, it eventually leads to blindness. Trachoma remains a public health issue in 39 countries, with over 103 million people at risk of infection. The disease spreads through contact with hands, clothing, bedding, and other surfaces, as well as through flies that come into contact with eye and nose discharge from infected individuals. ³ The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a goal to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem by 2030, and rapid and accurate diagnosis is critical in achieving this target.