Healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, perceptions and practices of noma in Northwest Nigeria: a cross-sectional study

BMJ Public Health 2026 Open access

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Authors: Michael Olaleye, Mohana Amirtharajah, Elise Farley, Mark Sherlock, Joseph Samuel, Moses Malual, Miriam Njoki Karinja, Kenneth Enwerem, Deogracia Wa Kabila, Beverley Stringer, Cono A. Ariti, Taiwo Abdurrazaq
+6 more Shafi’u Isah, Adeniyi Semiyu Adetunji, Fatima Saleh, Chikwe A Ihekweazu, Emmanuel Benyeogor, Grégoire Falq
DOI: 10.1136/bmjph-2025-003968
Cited by: 1
References: 13

Abstract

Introduction: Noma is a rapidly progressing oral infection with a 90% mortality rate if untreated. Early identification by healthcare workers is critical, but limited knowledge can delay diagnosis and timely treatment, leading to severe outcomes. This study assessed healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes, perceptions and practices related to noma in northwest Nigeria to inform training and strengthen early detection and response. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study via interviewer-administered questionnaire in randomly selected health facilities across Sokoto and Kebbi states, Nigeria. Healthcare workers were recruited via convenience sampling. Noma knowledge was assessed using 15 questions, and respondents were categorised based on their scores: very poor (

Fields of Study & Subjects

HIV/AIDS oral health manifestations Otolaryngology and Infectious Diseases Oral microbiology and periodontitis research

Publication details

Journal / source
BMJ Public Health
Publisher
BMJ
Volume
4
Issue
1
Pages
e003968–e003968
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN