30 January Holidays

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) have a devastating impact, causing disability, disfigurement, and death. They hinder economic development, trapping affected communities in a cycle of poverty. NTDs primarily afflict vulnerable populations with limited access to healthcare and sanitation. Addressing NTDs is crucial for global health equity and sustainable development.

There are 20 main neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). Here are their names:

1. Leprosy (Hansen's disease)
2. Buruli ulcer
3. Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis)
4. Dengue and chikungunya
5. Dracunculiasis (Guinea worm disease)
6. Echinococcosis (hydatidosis)
7. Foodborne trematode infections
8. Human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)
9. Leishmaniasis (cutaneous and visceral)
10. Lymphatic filariasis
11. Mycetoma
12. Onchocerciasis (river blindness)
13. Rabies
14. Schistosomiasis (bilharzia)
15. Soil-transmitted helminthiases
16. Taeniasis and neurocysticercosis
17. Trachoma (leading cause of infectious blindness)
18. Yaws
19. Cysticercosis
20. Snakebite envenoming

These diseases primarily affect impoverished and marginalized populations in tropical and subtropical regions, and efforts are being made to control and eliminate them to improve global health and reduce poverty.

NTDs are considered "neglected" because they primarily affect marginalized and impoverished communities with limited access to healthcare, education, and sanitation. These diseases often receive insufficient attention and resources compared to other global health issues.

Celebrate National Croissant Day by indulging in the flaky goodness of this iconic pastry. Try your hand at baking croissants from scratch, savoring the rewarding process and buttery outcome. Experiment with diverse fillings like Nutella, berries, or savory ham and cheese to elevate the classic experience. Dive into the pastry's rich history, tracing its Austrian origins and French refinement. Share your passion on social media by posting photos and recipes, connecting with fellow croissant enthusiasts. Attend croissant-making workshops to master the art of crafting these delicate pastries. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or paired with coffee, relish the unmatched pleasure of biting into a buttery croissant.

The croissant's iconic crescent shape carries historical significance. It's believed that during the Ottoman Turks' siege of Vienna in 1683, bakers shaped pastries like crescents, symbolizing the emblem of Turkey. This symbolism of resistance against the Turks got adapted into the Austrian "kipferls," which eventually evolved into the French croissant we know today. The shape serves as a cultural reminder of the pastry's origin and its connection to historical events.

National Croissant Day, observed annually on January 30th, is a celebration dedicated to the iconic croissant pastry. Originating as Austrian "kipferls," it gained popularity in France through Marie Antoinette's influence. This day honors its flaky layers, buttery taste, and cultural significance. Enthusiasts engage in baking, exploring croissant history, experimenting with fillings, and appreciating its evolution from a crescent symbol to a globally cherished treat. It's a chance to savor, create, and learn about this beloved delicacy.