The World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognizes Noma disease as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), a decision endorsed during the 17th meeting of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group for Neglected Tropical Diseases. This recognition is expected to extend health services to vulnerable populations worldwide.
Noma, also known as cancrum oris, affects the face, devouring soft tissues and, at times, completely destroying bones, including the nose and eyes. Prevalent in West Africa, especially among children under seven, the disease is linked to malnutrition, lack of vaccinations, poor oral hygiene, and poverty.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasizes that Noma is not just a disease but a social indicator of extreme poverty and malnutrition. The classification as an NTD aims to spotlight a condition that has afflicted marginalized communities for centuries. WHO commits to collaborating with affected countries to address Noma’s root causes and alleviate its impact.
Noma manifests as a severe gangrenous disease affecting malnourished children in regions of extreme poverty. Starting as gum inflammation, if untreated, it rapidly spreads, destroying facial tissues and bones, often leading to death and severe disfigurement among survivors.
Cases of Noma are primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa, with Uganda associating the disease with practices like “False teeth” (Ebiino) extraction, a form of infant oral mutilation prevalent in some African countries.
Dr. Martin Tungotyo’s study in Bushenyi district, Uganda, revealed prevalent beliefs in false teeth practices, highlighting the need for community education on preventive methods. However, the National Oral Health Policy does not specifically mention Noma.
Noma is caused by bacteria in the mouth, and risk factors include poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, infections, and extreme poverty. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, involving antibiotics, oral hygiene practices, and nutritional supplements. Severe cases may require surgery.
Recognition of Noma as an NTD aims to raise global awareness, stimulate research, secure funding, and enhance efforts to control the disease. Integrating Noma into oral health and neglected tropical disease programs at the operational level is crucial for effective management.
The Government of Nigeria spearheaded the inclusion of Noma in the list of NTDs, supported by a detailed dossier highlighting the disease’s burden and distribution across 32 member states. With Noma’s inclusion, the total number of WHO-listed NTDs is now twenty-one.