Final answer:
Elephantiasis is the swelling of body parts due to filariasis, which is caused by parasitic filarial worms and transmitted by mosquitos. Prevention of filariasis is crucial, and it is one of the many NTDs affecting tropical regions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The massive elephant-like swelling of the lower parts of the body due to filariasis, a tropical infectious disease, is called elephantiasis. This condition is characterized by extreme swelling, primarily in the arms, legs, or genitals. It is caused by parasitic filarial worms that are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitos. The larvae of these worms lodge in the lymphatic system, causing obstruction and leading to severe lymphedema.
Efforts to prevent filariasis are vital, as it is easier to prevent the disease than to treat or cure it once it has established. Besides filariasis, tropical regions are also afflicted by other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) like leishmaniasis, loiasis, schistosomiasis, and lymphatic filariasis. All of these diseases are spread through various vectors and can cause severe health issues, including inflammation, fever, and pain.