Daily Current Affairs : 19-December-2023

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently designated noma, a devastating gangrenous disease affecting the mouth and face, as one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). This move underscores the urgency of addressing this severe health issue prevalent in impoverished communities worldwide.

Overview of Noma:

Noma, also known as cancrum oris, is a life-threatening disease associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition, and inadequate access to sanitation and oral hygiene. With a staggering mortality rate of approximately 90%, it primarily targets children aged 2-6 in impoverished areas. Unfortunately, due to a lack of awareness, accurate estimates are elusive, with the latest data dating back to 1998.

Symptoms and Causes:
  1. Gum Inflammation: Noma manifests as severe gum inflammation.
  2. Ulcer Formation: Often triggered by bacteria in the mouth, it typically starts as an ulcer on the mucous membrane, frequently following measles or other illnesses.
  3. Long-term Effects: Survivors endure enduring consequences such as facial disfigurement, jaw muscle spasms, oral incontinence, and speech problems.
Historical Context:

Once prevalent in the Western world, noma was a visible consequence of poverty but gradually disappeared with economic progress. The recent inclusion of noma in the WHO’s list of neglected tropical diseases marks a crucial step towards eradicating this ailment, necessitating a heightened focus and allocation of resources.

Noma and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs):

Neglected tropical diseases are a diverse group of infections common in low-income populations in developing regions, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. These diseases, caused by various pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and parasitic worms, disproportionately affect marginalized communities, highlighting the need for targeted intervention and global collaboration.

Important Points:
  • Noma as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD):
    • Recently designated as an NTD by the WHO.
    • Gangrenous disease affecting the mouth and face, with a 90% mortality rate.
    • Linked to extreme poverty, malnutrition, and poor access to sanitation and oral hygiene.
  • Affected Population and Lack of Data:
    • Primarily impacts children aged 2-6 in impoverished communities.
    • Limited awareness leads to unreliable estimates, with data dating back to 1998.
  • Symptoms and Causes:
    • Gum inflammation is a prominent symptom.
    • Bacteria in the mouth, often triggered after measles or other illnesses, causes the disease.
    • Survivors may face facial disfigurement, jaw muscle spasms, oral incontinence, and speech problems.
  • Historical Context:
    • Known as the ‘face of poverty’ in the past, it was prevalent in the Western world.
    • Disappeared with economic progress but remains a significant issue in impoverished areas.
  • Inclusion in WHO’s List:
    • WHO’s recognition marks a crucial step toward eradication.
    • Prompts calls for increased attention and resources to combat the disease.
  • Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs):
    • A diverse group of tropical infections common in low-income populations.
    • Caused by various pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and parasitic worms.
    • Prevalent in developing regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
  • Global Health Implications:
    • Collective responsibility to address neglected tropical diseases.
    • Urgent need for increased awareness, research, and resource allocation.
    • Improved health outcomes for vulnerable populations worldwide as a primary goal.
Why In News

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently added noma, a severe gangrenous disease of the mouth and face, to its list of neglected tropical diseases (NTD), highlighting the urgent need for global attention and resources to address this often-overlooked health threat.

MCQs about Noma

  1. What is noma’s recent designation by the World Health Organization (WHO)?
    A. Upgraded Tropical Disease
    B. Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD)
    C. Pandemic Disease
    D. Rare Genetic Disorder
    Correct Answer: B. Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD)
    Explanation: noma’s recent addition to the WHO’s list of neglected tropical diseases, emphasizing its recognition as a significant health concern.
  2. What is the primary age group affected by noma in impoverished communities?
    A. Adolescents
    B. Adults
    C. Children aged 2-6
    D. Elderly
    Correct Answer: C. Children aged 2-6
    Explanation: The noma primarily impacts children in the age range of 2-6 in impoverished communities.
  3. What are the long-term consequences faced by noma survivors?
    A. Respiratory issues
    B. Cardiovascular problems
    C. Facial disfigurement, jaw muscle spasms, oral incontinence, and speech problems
    D. Skin disorders
    Correct Answer: C. Facial disfigurement, jaw muscle spasms, oral incontinence, and speech problems
    Explanation: The essay outlines these as enduring effects experienced by noma survivors.
  4. Why is the recent inclusion of noma in the WHO’s list significant?
    A. Symbolic gesture
    B. No particular significance
    C. Marks a crucial step toward eradication
    D. Routine update
    Correct Answer: C. Marks a crucial step toward eradication
    Explanation: The importance of this recognition, prompting calls for increased attention and resources to combat noma.

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