MHMS CALLS FOR A COORDINATED NATIONAL EFFORT TO PREVENT, DETECT, AND TREAT RHEUMATIC HEART DISEASE

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) Deputy Secretary Health Improvement (DSHI) Dr. Nemia Bainivalu, has called for a coordinated national effort to prevent, detect, and treat Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) in Solomon Islands.

Dr Bainivalu made the call during the World Heart Day celebrations held in Honiara, highlighting the important role of the Solomon Islands Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Programme in strengthening the national response to RHD.

“The Ministry of Health and Medical Services cannot address RHD alone; health workers, provincial and city health services, schools, communities, families, civil society, and development partners all have important roles”.

He further emphasized, most importantly, people living with RHD must be heard, as their experiences can help guide improvements in prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.

“Every heart matters. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy. Every family deserves access to the information and care they need. And every person living with RHD deserves our support”, he said.

“Let us continue working together to strengthen prevention, improve early detection and provide better care. Let us not wait until heart disease becomes severe before we act. Recognise the signs. Seek care early. Protect the heart. And let us remember today’s theme: “Don’t Miss a BEAT!” Together, let us build Stronger Hearts Solomon Islands”.

ENDS//// ….