Public Health Research Priorities for Fungal Diseases: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Save Lives
Dallas J. Smith, Jeremy A.W. Gold, Kaitlin Benedict, Karen Wu, Meghan Lyman, Alexander Jordan, Narda Medina, Shawn R. Lockhart, D. Joseph Sexton, Nancy A. Chow, Brendan R. Jackson, Anastasia P. Litvintseva, Mitsuru Toda, Tom Chiller
Abstract
Fungal infections can cause severe disease and death and impose a substantial economic burden on healthcare systems. Public health research requires a multidisciplinary approach and is essential to help save lives and prevent disability from fungal diseases. In this manuscript, we outline the main public health research priorities for fungal diseases, including the measurement of the fungal disease burden and distribution and the need for improved diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Characterizing the public health, economic, health system, and individual burden caused by fungal diseases can provide critical insights to promote better prevention and treatment. The development and validation of fungal diagnostic tests that are rapid, accurate, and cost-effective can improve testing practices. Understanding best practices for antifungal prophylaxis can optimize prevention in at-risk populations, while research on antifungal resistance can improve patient outcomes. Investment in vaccines may eliminate certain fungal diseases or lower incidence and mortality. Public health research priorities and approaches may vary by fungal pathogen.