Rapid assessment of noma in Ethiopia
Author Information
Author(s): Wendemagegn Enbiale
Primary Institution: Bahir Dar University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
Hypothesis
What is the burden and geographic distribution of noma in Ethiopia?
Conclusion
The rapid assessment highlights a critical lack of research and surveillance programmes for noma in Ethiopia.
Supporting Evidence
- Ethiopia lacks a national policy on noma, despite the national health policy addressing poverty-related diseases.
- 69 confirmed cases of noma were identified from 2015 to 2020, primarily from two NGOs.
- Cases were reported from nearly every region of Ethiopia, with a concentration in the Amhara region.
Takeaway
Noma is a serious disease that affects children in Ethiopia, and we need to do more to help them and prevent it.
Methodology
The study included a desk review, health sector capacity assessment, and retrospective analysis of hospital records from 2015 to 2022.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on NGO data and limited documentation of acute cases.
Limitations
Limited access to information from hospitals and NGOs, and lack of source documents at missionary hospitals.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of patients was 28 years, with 55.1% female and 44.9% male.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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