The integration of rheumatic heart disease into the broader global health agenda may ensure that future generations grow up free from this preventable disease, according to a paper published Sept. 10 in Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

David A. Watkins, MPH, MD, et al., discuss how rheumatic heart disease provides an unparalleled opportunity to advance the global cardiovascular agenda by giving priority to the most vulnerable, as it is a disease of poverty that affects children and working-age adults.

They note that a “diagonal” approach could both lead to rapid progress on rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease and strengthen health systems to address other noncommunicable diseases.

“Complementing the national agenda is an agenda for the global community,” the authors write. “Armed with scientific, economic and ethical arguments, the rheumatic heart disease community can establish links and partnerships across sectors and health areas.” Read more.