Screening and Secondary Prevention Rheumatic Heart Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), a significant health issue that can be detected early using a simple and sensitive test called point of care ultrasound. The study aims to understand how often RHD occurs and how common it is in community and school settings. Early diagnosis and treatment through secondary prevention with antibiotic prophylaxis may slow the disease progression and improve outcomes in a cost-effective way. The study involves basic clinical screening including medical history and physical examination followed by point of care ultrasound to examine the Mitral, Aortic, and Tricuspid valves for signs of valve regurgitation or stenosis. Patients diagnosed with RHD will receive treatment and referrals based on their disease stage. Antibiotic delivery may be shifted to community health workers using clinical algorithms, diagnostic tools, and supervision. Repeat imaging will be done at 2 and 5 years to monitor the progression of valve disease. Participants will undergo initial clinical and ultrasound assessments to confirm RHD status. Follow-up imaging occurs at two and five years to observe disease outcomes. Researchers will measure the presence of Rheumatic Heart Disease at the time of the screening echocardiogram. The study provides ongoing monitoring to evaluate delayed valve disease progression over time. Overall participation duration may extend up to 5 years, with periodic evaluations to assess heart valve status and treatment effects.

Screening and Secondary Prevention Rheumatic Heart Disease Study