Assessment of China’s contributions to the Regional Network for Asian Schistosomiasis and Other Helminth Zoonoses: a questionnaire survey

Abstract Background The Regional Network for Asian Schistosomiasis and Other Helminth Zoonoses (RNAS + ) was established in 1998, which has developed close partnerships with countries endemic schistosomiasis other helminthiasis Asia. RNAS provided an ideal regional platform policy-makers, practitioners researchers on the prevention, control research of parasitic diseases countries. China, one initiating countries, significant technical financial support to network. However, its roles contributions have not been explored so far. purpose this study assess China's supporting development. Methods An assessment framework evaluate China’s four aspects, including capacity building, funding support, coordination, cooperation. anonymous web-based questionnaire designed acquire respondents’ basic information, information contributions, challenges recommendations Each participant scored from 0 10 contribution: “0” represents no contribution, “10” 100% contribution. Participants who included their e-mail address 2017–2019 annual workshops were invited participate assessment. Results Of 71 participants enrolled, 41 responded survey. 37 (37/41, 90.24%) them member while 4 (4/41, 9.76%) international observers. Most respondents (38/41, 92.68%) familiar . Respondents reported that mainly focused improving providing coordination responsibility, joint application cooperation programs average scores above fields 8.92, 8.64, 8.75, 8.67, respectively, overall score 8.81 (10 a maximum score). challenge lack sustainable funding, skills, etc. most expressed continual need support. Conclusions This survey showed China played important role development since establishment. network-type organization disease can yet be regarded as great potential pattern enhance These findings used promote future between