Heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa: A clinical approach

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Heart failure (HF) is a critical global health concern, particularly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
• Decompensated heart failure is the leading cause of hospital admissions for heart disease in SSA, with in-hospital mortality rates reaching 8.3%.
• Diverse etiologies of HF necessitate diagnostic certainty and a comprehensive understanding of its pathophysiology for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology of heart failure (HF) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
• To outline essential HF management principles tailored for the SSA population.
• To focus on strategies for symptom relief, prevention of hospitalizations, and enhancement of survival rates in HF patients within SSA.

Main Methods:

• This is a review article, synthesizing existing data and literature.
• The review addresses epidemiological data specific to heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa.
• It focuses on fundamental management principles, including patient education, congestion management, and medical therapies.

Main Results:

• Heart failure poses a substantial challenge in SSA, with high mortality rates.
• Implementing basic HF management principles remains difficult in the region.
• Advanced international interventions require adaptation for effective use in SSA.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the HF epidemic in SSA requires a focus on fundamental management strategies.
• Improving patient education, congestion control, and timely initiation of disease-modifying therapies are crucial.
• Tailored approaches are necessary to reduce mortality and hospitalizations from heart failure in SSA.