Factors influencing the detection of noma cases in the West-Central region of Burkina Faso, 2024

Introduction: Noma, a neglected tropical disease that mainly affects children aged 2-6 years, is a fulminant infection of the orofacial region. Early detection helps minimize its burden. Despite all the strategies implemented, its detection remains a challenge in the West-Central region of Burkina Faso. The objective of this study was to investigate the factors influencing the detection of noma in the region. Methods: This was a qualitative study conducted with healthcare providers, traditional health practitioners, heads of non-governmental organizations, patient guardians and the local community. A total of 51 people participated in the study, through 33 interviews and three focus group discussions with six people each. The data were analysed thematically using Nvivo software version 14. Results: Health providers were found to have a low level of awareness of noma and confusion with cleft lip and palate. The majority of health providers reported not systematically inspecting the mouth during their consultations. Noma detection in the West-Central region was also influenced by insufficient dental care, inaccessibility of health centres, insufficient technical and human resources, and reporting, which is always done monthly. At the community level, the lack of awareness of noma, reliance on traditional health practitioners, lack of money, cultural beliefs, and stigma hindered detection. Conclusion: Noma detection was influenced by a lack of knowledge among health providers, its poor integration into surveillance systems, sociocultural, and economic factors. Continuous training of health providers and public awareness could be solutions.