David López Valencia is a fifth-year medical student at the University of Cauca and a member of the Center for Studies in Microbiology and Parasitology (CEMPA). He has been actively involved in research on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) identified by the World Health Organization, as well as infectious diseases of national public health interest.

David was recently included—for the second time—in the biennial list of featured publications by the International Society of Phthirapterists (ISoP) (https://phthiraptera.myspecies.info). This recognition came as a result of his research on epidemiological variables and the clinical characterization of an ectoparasitic disease: pediculosis

Ectoparasitic infections such as pediculosis, scabies, and tungiasis are classified by the World Health Organization as Neglected Tropical Diseases. These illnesses, caused by parasites, bacteria, viruses, or fungi, often have severe social, economic, and health impacts. They are especially common in vulnerable communities in tropical and subtropical regions like Colombia, affecting over 1 billion people worldwide (WHO NTDs Q&A). (https://www.who.int/es/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/neglected-tropical-diseases).

“It’s encouraging when your contributions are recognized by authorities in the field. This shows that as an undergraduate, it’s possible to make meaningful contributions to knowledge—working with patients, communities, and professors, supported by the academic and clinical training that characterizes the University of Cauca,” said the student researcher.

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Currently in his fifth year of studies, David is part of CEMPA, a research group affiliated with the Department of Internal Medicine at the Faculty of Health Sciences. His scientific work has focused on NTDs such as the taeniasis/cysticercosis complex, pediculosis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, and dengue. CEMPA is led by Professor Luis Reinel Vásquez Arteaga, and David coordinates the student research group (semillero) that includes students from Medicine, Nursing, and Biology.

His research has contributed to a broader understanding of NTDs recognized by the WHO and infectious diseases of public health concern in Colombia, including taeniasis/cysticercosis, pediculosis, leishmaniasis, malaria, dengue, hepatitis viruses, and hematology-related topics.

Written by: Center for Communications Management