World Health Day

As the world observes World Health Day today, Cure Kids Fiji, a charitable organization, is reaffirming its commitment to improving maternal and newborn health in Fiji, with a focus on one of the most pressing health challenges in the region—Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). This year’s World Health Day theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” aligns closely with Cure Kids Fiji’s ongoing efforts to reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths and improve long-term health outcomes, particularly through early diagnosis and treatment of RHD.

RHD continues to be a major health issue in the Pacific, particularly in Fiji, where untreated throat infection with strep A bacteria can lead to rheumatic fever and severe heart complications. RHD is twice as common in women and presents significant risks during pregnancy. RHD in pregnancy (RHD-P) is linked to an increased risk of maternal mortality, making it essential to address the health needs of pregnant women diagnosed with RHD in Fiji. A deeper understanding of the condition is crucial to improving healthcare service delivery and planning.  A recent review of people newly diagnosed between January 2022 and October 2023 found that nearly half were women diagnosed during pregnancy, and majority of these women were I-taukei. These results are concerning.  RHD had a serious impact on their lives – not just their health but emotionally and socially as well. These highlight how important early testing (diagnosis) and treatment are.  When RHD is not caught early, it can cause serious problems for both mothers and babies during pregnancy.

The Cure Kids team is working closely with the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services to provide support in the early diagnosis and treatment of more women, ensuring the safety of mother and their babies. This World Health Day, Cure Kids Fiji calls for increased awareness and action on RHD through our ongoing partnership with the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services, community outreach programs, screening and diagnosis and health professional training.