What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to explore the interactions between HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and helminth infections in South Africa and examine opportunities for integrated control.

May 25, 2026Open Access

The neglected triple disease burden and interaction of helminths, HIV and tuberculosis: an opportunity for integrated action in South Africa

Key Points

The aim is to explore the interactions between HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and helminth infections in South Africa and examine opportunities for integrated control.
Analysis of the epidemiological overlap of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and helminthiasis in South Africa.
Evaluation of current health policies regarding the integration of helminth control with HIV and TB services.
Review of international calls for program integration in neglected tropical disease management.
South Africa has the highest burden of both HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, exacerbated by endemic helminth infections.
Current integration efforts between HIV and TB services in South Africa show potential for success.
Implementation of a national helminth control program is planned, although integration challenges remain.

Abstract

The convergent distribution of HIV/AIDS and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), particularly helminthiasis, in sub-Saharan Africa has been described and associated with accelerated HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) epidemics in the region. South Africa (SA) suffers from the highest burden of HIV/AIDS and TB, especially in poor communities where helminth infection is endemic. The international NTD community is calling for integration of helminth control programmes into HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria control activities in developing countries. SA has integrated TB and HIV/AIDS services and plans to initiate a national helminth control programme, though how this might be integrated into HIV/AIDS and TB services is not clear.

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