Rheumatic heart disease in North Darfur: an alarmingly high burden and control initiative

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most common cause of cardiac morbidity in Sudanese young people and it is particularly prevalent in Darfur area. A retrospective review of clinical and echocardiography (echo) data for children with RHD seen in Al Fashir Hospital from 2010 to 2016 was conducted. Data from the hospital statistics, outpatient and echo clinic records were collected and analysed. A control program was started based on training modules and public awareness material. In the study period, 324 patients were admitted and 3,777 patients with RHD were seen in outpatient clinics. Complications occurred in 33% of inpatients with a case fatality of 12%. Echo revealed that 83% of patients have severe disease and 50% have a combination of more than two valves affected. Training of 50 medical assistants, 30 physicians and 10 health promoters was achieved. Public awareness programs were conducted. We found a significant burden of RHD in Al Fashir Hospital. A control program was initiated that needs substantial support from governmental and nongovernmental organizations.