by Galli A, Comparet M, Dagne DA, Baratti-Mayer D, Cao TH, Guérin PJ, Guevara M, Hetzel MW, Jeantet C, Mpinga EK, Muendane V, Okanlawon M, Placella E, Ribes M, Sherlock M, Utzinger J, Steinmann P. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases 2025;19(4): e0012940. doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012940
Summary: The authors of this article report on a symposium that brought individuals with lived experience of noma together with researchers, health advocates, and clinicians to review current understandings of noma and define a research agenda to generate evidence and shape a strategy to prevent, control, and eliminate noma as a public health problem. The most pressing research needs identified were: a clear case definition of noma; early case detection and robust surveillance; the psychosocial and economic impact of noma; decision support for diagnosing acute necrotizing gingivitis and associated antibiotic regimen(s) with treatment duration; a deeper understanding of risk factors and social determinants; identification of effective information, education, and communication strategies; effectiveness of surgical services; and testing decentralized follow-up for patients.
