WHO Declares Noma as a Neglected
Tropical Disease
World Health Organization Recognizes Noma as a Neglected Tropical Disease
On December 15, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) made an important announcement. They officially declared Noma, also known as cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis, as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD).
What is Noma?
Noma is a severe disease that affects the mouth and face. It mainly affects young children between the ages of two and six who are malnourished and live in extremely poor regions. The disease starts with inflammation of the gums and if not treated early, it quickly spreads and destroys facial tissues and bones. Survivors of Noma often suffer from severe disfigurement.
Why is Noma Considered a Neglected Tropical Disease?
The WHO recognizes Noma as a neglected tropical disease because it primarily affects vulnerable populations in sub-Saharan Africa, although cases have also been reported in the Americas and Asia. The disease is caused by bacteria found in the mouth and is associated with poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, infections, and extreme poverty. Noma is not contagious but tends to strike when the body’s defenses are down.
How is Noma Treated?
Early detection of Noma is crucial for effective treatment. In the early stages, it causes severe swollen gums known as acute necrotizing gingivitis. Treatment involves antibiotics, advice on improving oral hygiene with disinfectant mouthwash, and nutritional supplements. If diagnosed early, proper wound healing can occur without long-term consequences. However, in severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Children who survive the gangrenous stage of the disease may face difficulties with eating and speaking, social stigma, and may require reconstructive surgery.
Why is the WHO Recognizing Noma as an NTD?
Noma is more than just a disease; it is a symbol of extreme poverty and malnutrition. By classifying Noma as a neglected tropical disease, the WHO aims to raise awareness, encourage research, secure funding, and strengthen efforts to control the disease. Addressing the burden of Noma will contribute to achieving universal health coverage and specifically target underserved populations.
The Government of Nigeria’s Role
The Government of Nigeria took the lead in advocating for Noma to be included in the list of NTDs. In January 2023, they submitted an official request to the WHO on behalf of 32 Member States. The request was supported by a detailed dossier highlighting the burden and distribution of Noma. Several partner institutions also contributed by sharing information and conducting advocacy.
Expanding the NTD List
The formal process for adding new conditions to the NTD list was established by the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group for Neglected Tropical Diseases (STAG-NTD) in 2016. Since then, several diseases have been added, including mycetoma, chromoblastomycosis, scabies, snakebite envenoming, and now Noma. With the addition of Noma, the WHO’s NTD list now includes 21 diseases.
Leave a Reply