by Fahal AH, Ahmed IS, Saaed AA, Smith DJ, Alves F, Nyaoke B, Asiedu K, Hay R. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases 2024, 18(9): e0012420. doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012420
Summary: The authors of this viewpoint describe the work of the Mycetoma Research Center (MRC), based in Khartoum, Sudan, which is the only World Health Organization collaborating center for mycetoma. Mycetoma is a debilitating chronic neglected tropical disease that poses substantial medical, health and socioeconomic challenges, particularly in impoverished rural areas with limited access to healthcare. Mycetoma burdens affected communities with disability, social stigma, and reduced productivity. The MRC responds to these challenges through research, education, training, community engagement, and partnerships, impacting not only mycetoma but also contributing to broader societal goals, in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.