Weekly Current Affairs: Week- 3 December 2023 (27 Topics)
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‘Noma’: The latest addition to WHO’s list of neglected tropical diseases
Context
The severe gangrenous disease of mouth and face has 90% mortality rate and is associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition
About
WHO and Noma:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) took a significant step on December 15, 2023, by officially adding noma, a severe gangrenous disease affecting the mouth and face, to its list of neglected tropical diseases (NTD).
- Commonly known as cancrumoris, noma poses a significant health threat, especially to marginalized children living in extreme poverty.
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Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs):
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The Severity of Noma
- High Mortality Rate:Noma, with a mortality rate of approximately 90%, is associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition, poor sanitation, and limited access to oral hygiene.
- Primary Target: It primarily targets children aged 2-6 years and is prevalent in impoverished communities.
Lack of Awareness and Reliable Data
- Lack of Awareness: The lack of awareness surrounding noma is compounded by the absence of reliable data.
- Disease Prevalence: While the WHO estimates 140,000 cases per year with a prevalence of 770,000 cases, the latest data dates back to 1998, emphasizing the hidden and neglected nature of this disease.
Origins and Risk Factors
- Origin of Disease: The name "noma" is derived from the Greek word "nom?," meaning "to devour," reflecting the disease's ability to consume facial tissue and bones if not treated early.
- Risk Factors:Noma is linked to poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, infections, and extreme poverty.
- Although not contagious, it tends to strike when the body's defenses are weak.
Global Distribution and Impact
- Developing Countries:Noma is frequently observed in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it disproportionately affects poor children aged 3-10 years.
- Need for Early Detection: Early detection is crucial due to its high mortality rate, and interventions involving basic hygiene, antibiotics, and nutritional rehabilitation can significantly slow its spread.
Treatment Challenges and Consequences
- Early treatment:Early treatment is imperative, as noma often starts as an ulcer on the mucous membrane, quickly developing into massive necrosis.
- Consequences: Survivors face significant consequences, including facial disfigurement, jaw muscle spasms, oral incontinence, and speech problems.
- Effective drugs and Treatment: Access to effective drugs and surgical treatments remains a challenge, particularly for those in extreme poverty.
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