CURRENT STA TUS OF RHEUMA TIC FEVER AND RHEUMA TIC HEART DISEASE IN NEPAL

Abstract

Rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are common in underdeveloped, deprived and depressed areas of the world. The progression of RHD is rapid in deprived communuties. Prevalence of RF and RHD has sharply declined in affluent and developed countries, especially after the introduction of antibiotcs. RHD is a preventable disease. RHD is a leading cause of cardiovascular deaths in developing countries. The prevalence of RF and RHD varies from place to place. In developing countries, young productive age groups are suffering from this disease while in developed countries it is becoming geriatric disease due to the betterment of living standards and prompt awareness upon this disease. Studies and documentation of the current ststus of RF and RHD in Nepal is the present concern. 1. Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre. Address for correspondence : Dr. Yuba Raj Limbu, Cardiology Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre P.O.Box: 11360, Kathmandu, Nepal Email: [email protected] Key Words: Rheumatic fever, Rheumatic Heart Disease.