02351nas a2200301 4500000000100000008004100001260002200042653003900064653001200103653001700115653001800132653001500150653002400165653003300189653001400222100001800236700001600254700001500270700001300285700001300298700001600311245010800327856006700435300000800502490000700510520150700517022002502024 2024 d bSAGE Publications10aNeglected tropical diseases (NTDs)10aPoverty10aMalnutrition10aSocial Stigma10aDisability10aSub-Saharan African10aInternally displaced persons10aConflicts1 aAbdullahi MAS1 aBalarabe MR1 aTyndall JA1 aAlele FO1 aHabib AG1 aAdegboye OA00aNoma disease among internally displaced persons in Northeast Nigeria: a retrospective descriptive study uhttps://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/20499361241261269 a1-60 v113 a

Background: Recently recognized by the World Health Organization as a neglected tropical disease, Noma, an acute and destructive gangrenous disease affecting the gums and facial structures within the oral cavity, has a high mortality rate if untreated.

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence and impact of Noma among internally displaced populations in Northeastern Nigeria.

Design: A retrospective study. Methods: This retrospective study investigates the prevalence and impact of Noma among internally displaced populations in Northeastern Nigeria. Noma is endemic in Northern Nigeria, Africa, and its occurrence has been linked to extreme poverty, malnutrition, poor hygiene, and inadequate healthcare – conditions exacerbated by the ongoing Boko Haram conflict.

Results: The retrospective descriptive cross-sectional analysis of 17 cases reveals a median age of 8 years, with most of the patients being children who suffer significant social stigmas, such as difficulties in speaking, eating, and social integration, including reduced school attendance and marital prospects.

Conclusion: The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive research into the etiology of Noma and its socio-economic impact. It emphasizes the necessity for early and effective intervention strategies, particularly in conflict-stricken areas with limited healthcare access.

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