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There are still very few literature and research on Noma. Given the instability of the health systems in the countries hit by this disease, there are no accurate statistics available on the number of cases. The annual distribution of new cases shows that climate plays a role. In fact, upsurges have been observed during the dry season, called the “month of hunger” by some researchers.
It is also difficult to collect data because most victims fall prey to the disease before they can reach health centers. What is certain however, is that the situation is more drastic than it seems.
The Winds of Hope Foundation has therefore decided to provide partial funding for an epidemiological study of the disease in Africa. This will be conducted by the WHO Regional Office for Africa (OMS/AFRO) and the results are expected to be published in 2008.
WHO Map on the distribution of Noma cases, September 2003
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Presently, according to the results of some WHO researchers as described in its activity reports:
- The total number of children afflicted with Noma may reach half a million;
- Over 100,000 children suffer from Noma every year. The victims are almost always children between the ages of two and six;
- Each year, 20,000 children survive Noma but usually to live in hiding afterwards;
- Due to the lack of treatment, Noma is fatal in 70-90% of cases, which could very well represent 80,000 deaths a year;
- The poorest countries in Africa, Asia and South America are affected but the African continent is the most hard hit, accounting for 80% of cases;
- Today, Noma, endemic in numerous African countries, has reached public health issue proportions, especially in certain populations of the Sahelian region, also referred to by some as the “center of Noma”;
- Cases of Noma and most other diseases related to oral hygiene may be on the rise in Africa, due to a general deterioration of living standards: malnutrition, poor hygiene, HIV/AIDS, conflicts, corruption, etc.
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