TDR’s contributions to addressing global health challenges

TDR’s contributions to addressing global health challenges

TDR / Andy Craggs
© Credits

TDR supports research and builds research capacity to address the following four major global health challenges affecting infectious diseases of poverty using a One Health approach:

Tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases disproportionally affect the poorest and most vulnerable. We support research that leads to integrated, holistic approaches to control and elimination – reducing the burden of disease and building resilient health systems. This work crosses the disciplines of human, animal and environmental health and promotes the importance of applying an intersectional gender lens to infectious disease research.

TDR supports the generation of evidence that strengthens epidemic preparedness and the resilience of health systems to minimize the impact on existing programmes such as established vaccination measures. TDR also supports research that informs equitable and inclusive health system responses to epidemics and outbreaks, which reach the most vulnerable populations and leave no one behind. This will strengthen health security for all.

Climate change and loss of biodiversity affect the epidemiology of infectious diseases – altering drivers of disease, risks to populations and the effectiveness of control programmes. We support research through a One Health approach to better understand these changes and inform adaptation strategies.

Resistance to antiparasitic agents and insecticides and antimicrobial resistance now all pose significant global threats. TDR supports multisectoral research to inform national action plans and strategies to prevent and combat resistance. We contribute to research that strengthens resilience through improved surveillance, better risk assessment, enhanced awareness and better understanding of underpinning human behaviour related to the spread of resistance.