Healthy Hearts FSM: Rheumatic Heart Disease Screening in Micronesia
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Program Overview
What is Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)?
Rheumatic Heart Disease is a silent but preventable illness that develops when repeated or untreated strep throat infections lead to permanent damage to the heart valves. It often progresses silently, showing few symptoms until serious complications arise. Without early detection and care, RHD can result in heart failure, stroke, or premature death.
Our Past
Our Past Accomplishments
MAHI International helped launch the Rheumatic Heart Disease screening program in Pohnpei in 2016 alongside Dr. Perman. Together, we have screened nearly 10,000 children and young people, advancing early detection and prevention efforts throughout Micronesia.
Our Present
Our Current Initiatives
MAHI will continue to screen children in Chuuk and Pohnpei in 2026, with the goal of screening 2,000 children by November. This initiative includes close collaboration with local health workers and ongoing training of the local workforce to strengthen capacity and ensure sustainable, long-term RHD prevention efforts.
Our Future
By 2030, MAHI International will reduce the long-term burden of Rheumatic Heart Disease in Micronesia by 50% by decreasing late-stage RHD diagnoses, preventable complications, and RHD-related morbidity among children and youth ages 4–21, through universal screening, early intervention, and strengthened local healthcare capacity.
Our Long-Term Goal
Join Us in Ending RHD!
Give
Your generosity has a direct and immediate impact.
Just $20 screens one child for RHD, helping detect the disease early and connect children to life-saving care. When matching pledges are active, your gift can go even further, doubling the number of children reached.
Partner
We welcome partnerships with corporate sponsors, medical professionals, and organizations who share our commitment to health equity and prevention. Strategic partnerships help expand screening efforts, strengthen local health systems, and increase our collective impact across Micronesia.
Advocate
You can be a voice for children at risk.
By sharing our mission and raising awareness about RHD, you help bring attention to a preventable condition that too often goes undetected. Advocacy helps mobilize resources, educate communities, and inspire action.
Volunteer
Volunteers play a vital role in supporting outreach, education, and program activities. Whether you offer professional expertise or hands-on support, your time and skills help strengthen sustainable efforts to eliminate RHD.
