We strive to save lives
We strive to save lives
Neglected Tropical Disease Noma
What is Noma?
Noma is a severe infection in the mouth that rapidly destroys facial tissue primarily affecting children in extreme poverty. Without treatment, it can cause severe disfigurement of the face and is often fatal.
Who is affected?
Noma mainly affects children under the age of 7 in low-income countries, particularly in sub-saharan Africa, Asia and South America. Annually, 140,000 children contract Noma with a 90% fatality rate.
Why is it a Neglected Tropical Disease?
Noma is classified as a neglected tropical disease because it impacts impoverished communities with limited access to healthcare and receives little attention from the global health community
Noma Symptoms and Progression:
Early Stages:
Noma begins with mouth sores, inflamed gums and swollen cheeks. These symptoms can progress quickly if left untreated.
Later Stages:
Without treatment, Noma begins to eat away and destroy facial tissue leading to severe facial disfigurement and often death.
Speed of Progression:
The disease can progress from initial symptoms to life threatening conditions within days.
Causes for Noma:
Malnutrition:
Malnutrition weakens the immune system, making children more vulnerable to Noma.
Poor Hygiene and Sanitation:
Limited access to clean water and poor hygiene practices increase the risk of infection
Other factors:
Underlying illnesses such as measles, malaria, and HIV/AIDS also contribute to the risk of Noma.
Prevention and Treatment:
Prevention:
Prevention focuses on improving nutrition, hygiene, and access to clean water.
Treatment:
Early treatment with antibiotics and nutritional support can stop the disease, but advanced cases may require surgery which is often unavailable in affected areas.
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