Trends in Anesthesia

As of December 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially included noma, also known as cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis, in its list of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Noma is a severe gangrenous disease affecting the mouth and face, primarily afflicting malnourished children aged 2-6 in regions of extreme poverty. Noma’s risk factors include poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, and infections. Caused by bacteria in the mouth and starting as gum inflammation, noma, if untreated, rapidly destroys facial tissues and bones, often leading to death and severe disfigurement in survivors. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, involving antibiotics, oral hygiene improvement, and nutritional supplements. In severe cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary. Noma survivors often face social stigma and isolation. The disease is prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa, with cases also reported in the Americas and Asia. WHO’s recognition of noma as an NTD, prompted by the 17th meeting of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group for Neglected Tropical Diseases (STAG-NTD), aims to raise global awareness, catalyze research, secure funding, and enhance efforts to control the disease. The inclusion aligns with broader strategies for achieving universal health coverage, targeting underserved populations. Noma joins a list of 21 diseases or groups of diseases classified as NTDs.

Source: asamonitor.pub/3NKvclp