A 1-day symposium brought together over 100 individuals with lived experience of noma, expertise in neglected tropical diseases, and public health, including researchers, health advocates, and clinicians. The involvement of noma survivors was invaluable and added an important perspective in defining the research agenda.
The most pressing research needs identified were:
Clear case definition of noma
Early case detection and robust surveillance
Psychosocial and economic impact of noma
Decision support for diagnosing acute necrotizing gingivitis and associated antibiotic regimen(s) with treatment duration
Deeper understanding of risk factors and social determinants
Identification of effective information, education, and communication strategies
Effectiveness of surgical services
Testing decentralized follow-up for patients
An important conclusion was that noma research and control activities must be integrated across sectors and disciplines, such as neglected tropical diseases, oral health, nutrition, and child health programs including immunization.
