The Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has advocated for early prevention and treatment of Noma disease, especially among rural dwellers.
The MSF Project Medical Referent, Sokoto Office, Samuel Joseph, made the appeal during the commemoration of this year’s NOMA Disease held in Sokoto with the theme- ‘Early Dictation of Noma Disease is the Key.’
Samuel said the Noma now enlisted as one of the Tropical Neglected Diseases by the World Health Organization (WHO) can be cured if detected at an early stage.
He however identified malnutrition, lack of vaccination, measles complications, natural disasters, insecurity, poverty and poor healthcare access as factors contributing to Noma’s spreading among rural dwellers.
‘Noma, a devastating oral disease affecting thousands, particularly in impoverished communities. It has a long-lasting effect on the lives of survivors, from prolonged recovery period to permanent scars.
“For over a decade, MSF has worked tirelessly to combat Noma. Initially focusing on surgery, MSF has shifted its focus to prevention, collaborating with community leaders, traditional healers, and healthcare professionals.”
He also called for an improved immunisation exercise to prevent measles and related complications as well as addressing food insecurity and promoting proper nutrition in hard-to-reach communities.
On its part, Samuel said the MSF is creating awareness for early detection and treatment as well as training healthcare workers to identify and treat Noma cases promptly while engaging community and traditional healers to curb its spread.
His words: “MSF works with governments, healthcare providers, and organisations to strengthen primary healthcare systems, improve access to treatment, and promote prevention.
“Preventing Noma is cheaper and effective than surgery. We have made significant progress, but renewed collaboration is crucial.” He further explained.
Also speaking, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar who was represented by District Head of Bodinga, Alhaji Bello Abdulra’uf commended the MSF for their unrelenting efforts in fighting Noma disease in the state.
In his speech, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, while commending the Médecins Sans Frontieres activities in the state said his administration would continue to prioritise the medical wellbeing of people of the state.
The governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Namadina Ibrahim however advocated for the upgrading of State Noma Hospital to an International Research Center on Noma Disease Control.