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Risk Factors for Acute Rheumatic Fever: Literature Review and Protocol for a Case-Control Study in New Zealand.
Michael G Baker1, Jason Gurney1, Jane Oliver1
1Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6021, New Zealand.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|November 17, 2019
Summary
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) persist in New Zealand, particularly in Māori and Pacific communities. This study investigates modifiable risk factors to inform prevention strategies for ARF.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are significant health concerns largely eradicated in high-income nations.
- New Zealand experiences disproportionately high ARF/RHD rates among indigenous Māori and Pacific populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify modifiable risk factors for ARF in New Zealand.
- To inform the development of targeted disease prevention policies and programs.
Main Methods:
- Case-control study design recruiting ARF cases (<20 years) and matched controls from North Island, NZ.
- Data collection via questionnaires on exposures, linked health/school records, and biological specimens (throat, nasal, blood, hair).
- Comprehensive analysis of organism, host, and environmental factors.
Main Results:
- Study aims to recruit at least 120 ARF cases and 360 controls.
- Comprehensive data collection will allow examination of numerous specific environmental risk factors.
- Closely matched controls enhance the ability to isolate risk factors.
Conclusions:
- Understanding modifiable risk factors is crucial for ARF prevention in high-risk NZ populations.
- This research will provide evidence for effective public health interventions.
- Addressing environmental and host factors may reduce ARF incidence.
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