The prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Fiji has reached a concerning figure, with 4,984 patients diagnosed as of July this year, according to Verenaisi Werekoro, the national RHD coordinator from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. Speaking at the Fiji Oral Health Association’s annual conference in Nadi, Werekoro reported a worrying rise in diagnoses among pregnant women and young adults, highlighting the condition’s far-reaching impact.
Werekoro emphasized that school-aged children aged five to 15 years are particularly vulnerable, as RHD often stems from untreated acute rheumatic fever, which can lead to serious health complications. “Most of the time, I’m picking up cases when it’s already at the diagnosis stage of RHD,” she stated. Recognizing the early signs of acute rheumatic fever is crucial for preventing the progression to more severe heart disease.
Geographically, the distribution of RHD cases reveals a significant concentration in the Central Division, which has 2,979 cases, followed by the Western Division with 1,160 cases and the Northern Division with 845 cases. Werekoro noted that there has been an increase in outreach screenings that have led to the identification of more cases, with new patients being added daily.
This surge in RHD cases correlates with findings from previous studies, which indicate that children from Pacific communities face severe health disparities related to rheumatic fever and heart diseases. Reports have shown that Pacific children are more than 100 times more likely to be hospitalized due to acute rheumatic fever compared to their peers in other regions, with similar troubling trends noted for Māori children.
Efforts to raise awareness and prevention strategies have gained momentum, particularly in schools. Initiatives such as the recently celebrated World Heart Day in Navua, where local schools participated in a march to promote heart health and the significance of RHD, highlight the urgent need for community engagement. Erini Tokarua of Heart Heroes Fiji pointed out that one student in every classroom is likely impacted by this condition, underscoring the importance of awareness and education.
The government is also taking steps to combat these alarming statistics, particularly with the Rheumatic Fever Roadmap for 2023-2028 aimed at reducing the incidence and impact of both acute rheumatic fever and RHD. This national strategy is part of broader health initiatives targeting underlying issues that contribute to these diseases, including socioeconomic factors such as inadequate housing which are pivotal in the fight against RHD.
As health officials continue to focus on awareness, early detection, and treatment adherence, there is hope for a change in the trajectory of rheumatic heart disease in Fiji, promoting healthier futures for the nation’s children.
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