Acquired heart disease in low-income and middle-income countries

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Cardiology
• Global Health
• Epidemiology of Cardiovascular Diseases

Background:

• Acquired cardiac disease in children presents a substantial health challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).
• The burden of acquired pediatric heart conditions may rival that of congenital heart disease in these regions.
• Key contributors include rheumatic heart disease, endomyocardial fibrosis, cardiomyopathy (including HIV-associated), and tuberculosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant and often underestimated burden of acquired cardiac diseases in children within LMIC.
• To emphasize the link between poverty, limited access to care, and the high mortality and morbidity associated with these conditions.
• To underscore the urgent need for enhanced pediatric cardiac services in specific high-prevalence areas.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review and synthesis of existing data on acquired pediatric cardiac diseases in LMIC.
• Analysis focuses on the prevalence, causes, and impact of conditions such as rheumatic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and tuberculosis.
• Geographic focus includes sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, identified as areas with the highest disease burden.

Main Results:

• Acquired cardiac diseases represent a major cause of pediatric illness in LMIC, with a burden potentially equivalent to congenital heart disease.
• Poverty is a significant determinant, correlating with reduced access to essential cardiac care for affected children.
• High rates of mortality and morbidity are associated with these conditions, particularly in underserved populations.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent and critical need to improve and expand cardiac care services for children in LMIC.
• Targeted interventions are essential in regions like sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, where the burden of acquired pediatric heart disease is most acute.
• Addressing socioeconomic factors and improving healthcare access are paramount to reducing the impact of these preventable and treatable conditions.