Nearly one child in every classroom lives with RHD, Chief Medical Advisor warns

Nearly one child in every classroom across Fiji lives with Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), Chief Medical Advisor Dr Luisa Cikamatana has revealed.

Speaking at the World Heart Day celebration at Frank Hilton Special School this morning, Dr Cikamatana shared alarming statistics, noting that over 4,000 individuals are currently registered with RHD, with more than 70 per cent under 30 years old.

She said RHD is the second leading cause of death for young people aged 5 to 29, costing the health system over $19 million annually.

“Every child’s heartbeat matters, and no child should be left behind,” she added, highlighting the vulnerability of Fiji’s special needs children who are often overlooked in health conversations.

Heart Heroes Fiji founder Erini Tokarua said the celebration was tailored for school students.

“Today (yesterday) was basically tailor-made for Frank Hilton Special School, being considerate of their needs, their time spent, and the language and tone,” Ms Tokarua said.

The event included storytelling with visual aids and sign language teachers to help children understand basic heart health messages.

“Just getting them to understand the basics - when you have a sore throat, go to the hospital,” she said.

Health screening was conducted for students, with other children welcome to join. Dr Cikamatana emphasized that RHD is preventable with awareness, early detection, and timely treatment.

“With awareness, early detection, and timely treatment, no child should have to suffer from this condition,” she said.

The event was supported by Fiji Water Foundation, Ministry of Health, Cure Kids Fiji, Turners and Growers, New World Supermarket, and Fiji Navy.