The burden of eumycetoma in Africa: a neglected fungal disease

Smith DJ, Sow D, Enbiale W, Colom MF, Ekai JL, Nyaoke BA, Fahal AH The Lancet Regional Health – Africa 2026, 100032. doi: 10.1016/j.lanafr.2026.100032

Summary:The authors of this comment note that an article by Bongomin et al. describing health disparities and the burden of fungal infections in Africa does not mention eumycetoma, despite high rates of morbidity and its link to major health disparities. They describe current knowledge about eumycteoma’s true burden, given the gaps in awareness, surveillance, and diagnostics, and describe difficulties faced in diagnosis and treatment. Coordinated approaches at a national level are needed to address eumycetoma in Africa. Tools exist to prevent severe disease and long-term complications but more equitable access to education, awareness, diagnostics, and treatment is essential. With support from local and global partnerships, Africa can lead in addressing not only eumycetoma but fungal NTDs more broadly.

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