Context: The World Health Organization (WHO) on December 15, 2023 added one of the world’s most underrecognised health challenges, noma, to its official list of neglected tropical diseases (NTD).

Context: The World Health Organization (WHO) on December 15, 2023 added one of the world’s most underrecognised health challenges, noma, to its official list of neglected tropical diseases (NTD).

cent. It is also associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition and poor access to sanitation and oral hygiene. 

About Noma:

Also Known As: Cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis (World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day).

Etymology: The name "noma" is derived from the Greek word "nomē," meaning "to devour," reflecting the disease's ability to consume facial tissue and bones if not treated promptly.

Risk Factors:

Poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, infections, and extreme poverty are associated with Noma.

Severity:

A severe gangrenous disease affecting the mouth and face, with a high mortality rate of approximately 90 percent.

Demographics:

• Primarily affects children aged 2-6 years, prevalent in poor communities.
• While not contagious, Noma tends to strike when the body's defenses are compromised.

Onset and Causes:

• Begins with gum inflammation and is believed to be caused by bacteria present in the mouth.
• Can also manifest in immunocompromised adults due to conditions like HIV, leukemia, and other diseases.

Global Presence:

Prevalent in Africa, Asia and Asia-Pacific, the Americas, the Middle East, and Europe.

Treatment:

• Involves a prescribed course of widely available antibiotics.
• Provides guidance and support for practices to enhance oral hygiene.
• Includes the use of disinfectant mouthwash and nutritional supplements.