Rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are neglected diseases, although RHD remains the most common cardiovascular disease among the young people. This position statement is a declaration of the World Heart Federation Working Group on RF and RHD strategic goal to reduce by 25% the number of premature deaths from RF and RHD among individuals aged <25 years by the year 2025. The Working Group affirms key strategic targets, reviews barriers to RF and RHD control, and identify the actions required to change the trajectory of control for these diseases.
- Bo Remenyi
- Jonathan Carapetis
- Bongani M. Mayosi
