09/04/2026
_HEART VALVE DISEASES: LET'S TALK ABOUT THEM_
*Mitral Regurgitation (MR) in Africa: What Everyone Needs to Know* (continued and concluded).
*How to Prevent Mitral Regurgitation?*
Preventing mitral regurgitation is possible and should be a priority in Africa. It works on several levels: preventing the disease from occurring, avoiding recurrences and complications.
- *Treating Tonsillitis Promptly*
Since the main cause of mitral regurgitation in Africa is rheumatic fever, and this rheumatic fever is itself triggered by strep throat, the absolute priority is to properly treat all cases of tonsillitis, especially in children.
*Any child or adolescent suffering from tonsillitis (sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing) should be taken for medical consultation. A full course of antibiotics must be administered and completed. Stopping treatment too soon because the child seems better is a dangerous mistake.
- *Improving Living Conditions*
Overcrowding, lack of clean water, malnutrition, and limited access to healthcare all contribute to the spread of streptococcal infections. Efforts to improve housing, hygiene, nutrition, and access to healthcare facilities are therefore an essential form of heart disease prevention.
- *Raising Community Awareness*
Many families are unaware that improper treatment of strep throat can damage their child's heart. Community health workers, teachers, religious leaders, and local leaders have a crucial role to play in spreading this simple message: properly treated strep throat means a protected heart.
- *Early Detection*
In some African countries, echocardiography screening programs are being implemented in schools to identify children with silent valvular heart disease. This early detection allows for treatment before the disease worsens. These initiatives deserve to be encouraged and expanded.
- *Preventing Endocarditis*
Patients already suffering from valvular heart disease should receive antibiotic prophylaxis before certain d
