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Rheumatic heart disease is a major cause of premature cardiovascular morbidity and mortality globally. Over the past decade, echocardiographic screening has changed our understanding of the natural history of RHD, revealing a high burden of clinically silent, mild RHD among people who cannot recall a history of preceding acute rheumatic fever. This viewpoint outlines the evidence that this earliest form of rheumatic heart disease, only detectable through echocardiographic screening, is an intermediate stage that many, but not all, individuals may pass through on the pathway to advanced rheumatic heart disease.

Improved opportunities for the primary prevention of ARF now exist, because of point-of-care antigen tests for Streptococcus pyogenes, and clinical decision...

In endemic areas, RHD has long been a target of screening programmes that, historically, have relied on cardiac auscultation.

In the 21st century, rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are neglected diseases of marginalized communities.

We still do not have a RF vaccine, although the recent announcement that the Australian and New Zealand governments are jointly sponsoring a program to fast...

Historically, many young people suffered severe valvular disease and died awaiting heart valve replacement.

The World Health Organization, World Heart Federation, and other organizations recommend comprehensive control programs for rheumatic fever (RF) and...

Benzathine penicillin G is an important antibiotic for the treatment and prevention of group A streptococcal infections associated with rheumatic fever and...

This editorial viewpoint regarding the outcomes from the third global Rheumatic Heart Disease Forum intends to carry forward dialogue & engage new...

This article discusses the World Health Organization program for monitoring & managing rheumatic heart disease.