New data released by researchers indicate that sub-Saharan Africa could save $52 billion between 2011-2030 if the region meets the World Health Organization (WHO) 2020 targets for controlling or eliminating the five most common neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

The report suggests that Nigeria alone could save nearly $12 billion and avert the equivalent of over 23 million years of life that would have otherwise been lost to ill health, disability and early death.

Nigeria is affected by all the five most common NTDs, including lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis), onchocerciasis (river blindness), schistosomiasis (bilharzia), soil-transmitted helminths (intestinal worms), and trachoma.

The data, developed by Erasmus University with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was released at an event hosted by the END Fund, an international philanthropic organization, alongside the World Economic Forum on Africa in Kigali, Rwanda.

The report by the Netherlands-based Erasmus University noted how meeting goals could also help the region gain the equivalent of 100 million life-years that would otherwise be lost to ill health, disability and early death arising from these diseases.

Chief Executive Officer of the END Fund (private philanthropic initiative dedicated to ending the five most common NTDs), Ellen Agler described NTDs as a diverse group of parasitic and bacterial infectious diseases that are particularly prevalent in areas with limited access to safe water, proper sanitation and adequate medical services.