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Bridging Knowledge Gaps in Rheumatic Heart Disease Prevention: A Narrative Review of Educational Interventions Across
Ganesh Shetty1, Prashant Khadka1, Dhurba Khatri1
1Kathmandu Institute of Child Health (KIOCH), Budhanilkantha Municipality, Nepal.
Health Services Insights
|July 16, 2026
Summary
Educational interventions effectively improve knowledge and practices for acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Integrated, multi-level strategies are crucial for sustained impact in affected communities.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Medical Education
- Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Background:
- Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are significant public health issues in low- and middle-income countries.
- Limited awareness, delayed healthcare seeking, and insufficient provider training exacerbate ARF/RHD morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize educational and awareness strategies for ARF/RHD.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions targeting various populations.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review using an integrative synthesis framework.
- Searches conducted across multiple databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, DOAJ) and grey literature.
- Thematic synthesis of seven eligible studies on educational interventions.
Main Results:
- Educational interventions consistently improved knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to ARF/RHD.
- Healthcare worker training enhanced diagnostic skills and confidence in benzathine penicillin use.
- Maternal education and school-based programs showed positive effects, with mass media campaigns achieving broad reach.
Conclusions:
- Educational and awareness interventions positively impact ARF/RHD knowledge, behaviors, and clinical skills.
- Sustained ARF/RHD control requires integrated, multi-level approaches including school, community, and healthcare worker engagement.
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