Abstract
It is now evident that environmental degradation can facilitate the transmission of infectious diseases, particularly by bringing humans into closer proximity with vectors or animals. In the case of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), the World Health Organization (WHO) is endeavoring to mobilize institutions and the scientific community by identifying, for each NTD, existing gaps in clinical diagnostic needs, the criteria required for their development, and the strategies to be adopted to combat the disease. Among them, schistosomiasis, the second most prevalent human parasitic disease, suffers from a distinct lack of diagnostic tools that combine sensitivity and deployability to detect cases with low parasitic intensity in endemic areas. Additionally, such tools are needed to facilitate animal and environmental diagnosis, enabling an integrated approach to disease control. The objectives of this thesis align with the One Health strategy, proposing the development and application of field-friendly diagnostic tools for humans, animals, and the environment. Ongoing efforts in research, development, prevention, treatment, and awareness are essential to achieve a world where Schistosomiasis and other neglected tropical diseases cease to threaten human health.