WHO officially announces Noma as Neglected Tropical Disease

The World Health Organisation (WHO), has announced the inclusion of noma (Cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis) in its official list of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).

READ ALSO: World Noma Day: Sokoto State Reiterates Commitments to Address Diseases

According to WHO, in a statement published on its website said, the recognition of noma as an NTD aims to amplify global awareness, catalyse research, stimulate funding, and boost efforts to control the disease through multisectoral and multi-pronged approaches.

It said the interventions addressing the burden of this devastating disease will contribute to achieving Universal Health Coverage, as they will specifically target underserved populations.

WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus said, the decision, which was recommended by the 17th meeting of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group for NTD (STAG-NTD), underscores the organisation’s commitment to expanding health services to the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Mr Ghebreyesus said, “Noma is not just a disease but a social marker of extreme poverty and malnutrition, affecting the most vulnerable population.

“By classifying noma as a neglected tropical disease, we are shining a light on a condition that has afflicted marginalised communities for centuries,” he said.

He said, WHO is committed to working with affected countries and communities to address the drivers of noma and alleviate the suffering it causes.

Noma, is a severe gangrenous disease of the mouth and face, primarily affects malnourished young children in regions of extreme poverty. It starts as an inflammation of the gums, which, if not treated early, spreads quickly to destroy facial tissues and bones.

According to health experts, early detection is essential, as therapy is most effective at the early stages of disease when it causes severely swollen gums, known as acute necrotising gingivitis.