Photographer: Amy Scheel, Emory University SOM

A young boy holds on to his older brother as they observe their mother (not pictured) receiving a screening echocardiogram for rheumatic heart disease (RHD) as part of a community study in Gulu, Uganda. The oldest boy, falling into the five-50 years old inclusion criterion would be next. The result of an untreated group A streptococcus infection (strep throat) and subsequent attack of rheumatic fever, RHD causes permanent scarring of the left sided valves, which can lead to heart failure, stroke, and even death. Although the prevalence of RHD is similar to HIV and malaria, RHD receives roughly 0.1% of global research funding and is virtually ignored by global health organizations and governments supporting projects to improve public health conditions in developing countries. Early detection of RHD through screening shows promise in preventing disease progression but ultimately a multi-faceted approach incorporating provider education and primary prevention is needed.

Share this Story