An average of 34 out of every 1,000 children are affected by valve defects in the heart, according to a new study conducted in Tanzania.
Environmental pollution and lack of access to clean water are among the risk factors identified as contributors to the problem.
The study was conducted by specialists at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) and the findings were published in the *BMC* medical journal in the United Kingdom on December 20, 2021.
The researchers also indicated that children aged nine and above, as well as those with respiratory infections (such as coughs or colds), are at higher risk of developing the condition, which is medically known as Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD).
Led by the chief investigator, Dr. Palvina Kazahura, a pediatric cardiologist at JKCI, the researchers explained:
“During the study, we found that children aged nine and above had a higher likelihood of having these heart complications compared to those under that age.”
“Additionally, children who had experienced respiratory infections (coughs or colds) three months prior to the study were more likely to develop these heart problems compared to those who did not.”
The study was conducted between February and May 2019 in two primary schools: Muhimbili Primary School (Ilala Municipality) and Mjimpya Primary School (Temeke Municipality), both in Dar es Salaam.
“A total of 1,023 students participated in the study, with 949 of them undergoing echocardiography screening.
“Fifty-seven percent of the participants were female, and all students were between the ages of 7 and 18, ranging from grade one to grade seven,” the researchers stated.
They emphasized that parents provided consent for their children to participate, and none of the students had previously been reported to have heart valve issues.
“The goal of the study was to enable early detection so that timely treatment could be provided, as the condition is treatable,” the researchers noted.
Pedro Pallangyo, one of the researchers involved, told M24 TANZANIA MEDIA that maintaining proper hygiene plays a significant role in protecting heart health.
“You find areas with dirty toilets, open sewers running through residential areas, people not brushing their teeth properly, struggling to bathe, and dump sites located near homes.
“Heart valve diseases like RHD are caused by bacteria entering the respiratory system, multiplying, and eventually affecting the heart valves.”
He added, “That’s why these diseases are unheard of in developed countries, or even in affluent areas of Dar es Salaam like Masaki. Instead, you find them in places like Manzese, Tandika, Tandale, and similar areas.”
He further emphasized, “Air pollution also significantly increases the likelihood of such diseases.”
The researchers highlighted in the publication that “Respiratory infections have been linked to poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and improper handwashing practices with clean running water and soap.”
“Hand hygiene reduces the transmission of microorganisms that can infect the respiratory system. Studies from Pakistan have also shown that poor sanitation and lack of clean water increase the risk of RHD.”
“Similarly, findings from Yugoslavia align with our study at JKCI, highlighting the importance of reliable access to clean water and diagnostic services in preventing this condition,” the researchers stressed.
They concluded, “Poor housing conditions, overcrowded settlements, and closely built homes limit air circulation, increasing the risk of respiratory and other infections.”
Chapisha Maoni