Noma: neglected, forgotten and a human rights issue

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Noma is an opportunistic orofacial gangrenous infection primarily affecting malnourished children in extreme poverty.
• This neglected disease leads to significant disfigurement, disability, and high mortality rates among vulnerable populations.
• Noma is recognized as a biological indicator of severe human rights violations, particularly the right to adequate nutrition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical neglect and lack of attention surrounding noma.
• To emphasize the link between noma and human rights violations, specifically the right to food.
• To advocate for increased international support and national focus to eliminate childhood noma.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review and synthesis of existing literature and expert knowledge on noma.
• It analyzes the socio-economic and health implications of the disease.
• It discusses the role of international aid and national health policies.

Main Results:

• Noma remains a neglected disease, largely unknown to many healthcare professionals.
• Affected children suffer from severe, life-altering consequences, including death, disfigurement, and disability.
• There is a significant lack of both international support and national attention in countries where noma is prevalent.

Conclusions:

• Ending the neglect of noma is essential for its elimination.
• Increased global and national efforts are required to combat this horrific childhood disease.
• Addressing the underlying factors, such as malnutrition and poverty, is key to preventing noma.