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Technical Challenges in Studying Infectious Disease-Associated Pulmonary Hypertension in Low- and Middle-Income
Jennifer van Heerden1, Irina Mbanze2,3, Elizabeth Louw4
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK.
Background:
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) disproportionately affects those residing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Given that these countries also have a high prevalence of infectious diseases, many cases of PH are either directly or indirectly related to infectious etiologies. Despite this correlation, the precise burden of infectious disease-associated PH is largely underappreciated due to a lack of diagnostic resources, a shortage of clinical expertise to carry out right heart catheterization and poor access to healthcare facilities in many low- and middle-income settings.
Methods:
In this narrative review, we highlight the significant burden of infectious disease-associated PH in LMICs, outline the technical challenges faced by LMICs when diagnosing PH, and propose possible solutions for diagnosing PH in resource-constrained settings.
Conclusions:
Low-cost and sustainable solutions for infectious disease-associated PH in LMICs should be prioritized. Meaningful solutions require collaborative efforts and capacity building in LMICs.
Insights
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) linked to infections is a major health issue in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Addressing this requires developing low-cost diagnostic tools and building local healthcare capacity.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Global Health
Background:
- Pulmonary hypertension (PH) disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
- Infectious diseases are a common cause of PH in LMICs, yet this association is often overlooked.
- Limited diagnostic resources and healthcare access hinder PH diagnosis in LMICs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the burden of infectious disease-associated PH in LMICs.
- To outline diagnostic challenges for PH in resource-constrained settings.
- To propose solutions for diagnosing PH in LMICs.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature.
- Analysis of diagnostic challenges in LMICs.
- Identification of potential low-cost diagnostic solutions.
Main Results:
- Infectious etiologies contribute significantly to the PH burden in LMICs.
- Lack of right heart catheterization expertise and facilities are key diagnostic barriers.
- Underdiagnosis of PH is prevalent due to resource limitations.
Conclusions:
- Prioritizing low-cost, sustainable solutions for infectious disease-associated PH is crucial.
- Collaborative efforts and capacity building are essential for effective PH management in LMICs.
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