Cardiac Surgery to Manage Rheumatic Heart Disease in Africa Is Complex - a Geographic Perspective.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most common form of acquired heart disease in Africa, often requiring surgical intervention. Previous studies have demonstrated the need for more cardiac surgeons in Africa but have not outlined their distribution relative to populations and incident cases.

Objective

We estimate rheumatic heart disease incidence and cardiac surgical capacity to manage RHD in Africa. By characterizing geographic catchment areas served by the nearest cardiac surgeon(s), we estimate patient travel distance and the unmet surgical need.

Methods

Subnational population, RHD incidence, cardiac surgeon, and geographic data were collected from credible, publicly accessible sources. Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS 3.32) was used to crea

SUBMITTER: Leith J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11804176 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature