Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2023-07-13
Buruli ulcer is a neglected tropical disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. It primarily affects the skin and soft tissues, leading to severe ulceration and tissue destruction.
What is the prevalence of Buruli Ulcer?
Prevalence of Buruli Ulcer: how many people are affected worldwide, differences by sex and region, with sources.
Buruli ulcer is a neglected tropical disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. It primarily affects the skin and soft tissues, leading to severe ulceration and tissue destruction. The disease is prevalent in certain regions of Africa, including West and Central Africa, as well as parts of Australia and Southeast Asia.
The prevalence of Buruli ulcer varies across different countries and regions. In some areas, it is considered endemic, with a high number of cases reported annually. For example, in certain parts of West Africa, the prevalence can be as high as 100 cases per 100,000 population. However, due to underreporting and limited surveillance systems, the true prevalence is likely higher than reported.
It is estimated that thousands of new cases of Buruli ulcer occur each year globally. The disease primarily affects individuals living in rural communities with limited access to healthcare and poor sanitation. Factors such as proximity to water bodies, including slow-moving or stagnant water, have been associated with increased risk of infection.
Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in preventing severe disability and long-term complications associated with Buruli ulcer. Efforts are being made to improve surveillance, raise awareness, and enhance access to healthcare services in affected regions to reduce the prevalence of this debilitating disease.
