02020nas a2200253   4500000000100000008004100001260003700042653001300079653002500092653001400117653001300131653002400144100001300168700001300181700001500194700001300209700001600222245013100238856009900369300000900468490000700477520126800484022001401752       2024                            d  bPublic Library of Science (PLoS)10aMycetoma10aCommunity engagement10aEducation10aAdvocacy10aLocal collaboration1 aFahal AH1 aAhmed ES1 aMahmoud AH1 aSaaed AA1 aNosanchuk J00aThe Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum, Sudan’s experience in community engagement initiatives spans 3 decades  uhttps://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0012304&type=printable  a1-160 v183 a<jats:p>Mycetoma profoundly affects marginalised communities, especially in impoverished and remote areas with limited access to healthcare. This chronic and debilitating inflammatory disease highlights the typical issues of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as insufficient attention, funding, and resources, which perpetuate neglect and suffering. Patients often delay seeking medical help, leading to advanced disease stages, severe complications, and lasting disabilities. The lack of medical infrastructure and skilled healthcare professionals worsens the situation, causing delays in diagnosis and inadequate treatment. Engaging affected communities in tailored interventions is essential to tackle these challenges, promote collaboration, raise awareness, and mobilise resources to improve healthcare access and enhance diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Since 1991, the Mycetoma Research Center (MRC) at the University of Khartoum, Sudan, has led community engagement initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for mycetoma-affected individuals through education, advocacy, and local collaboration. In this communication, the MRC shares its extensive experience in community engagement to benefit mycetoma-affected communities.</jats:p>  a1935-2735