Global Collaboration Key to Curbing Kawasaki Disease Heart Risks

A new science advisory from the American Heart Association, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, emphasizes that international collaboration is crucial to reducing the risk of serious heart conditions in children with Kawasaki disease worldwide. Led by Dr. Ashraf S. Harahsheh of Children's National Hospital, the advisory highlights that while Kawasaki disease is highly treatable, many children face delayed diagnosis and limited access to care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The disease, which primarily affects children under five, is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children and can lead to coronary artery aneurysms if untreated. Early treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) can reduce aneurysm risk from 25% to under 5%. The advisory calls for inclusive global networks, shared data, and culturally sensitive approaches to bridge gaps in diagnosis and care. It notes that existing collaborations, such as those in East Asia where incidence is 10-30 times higher than in the U.S., have improved outcomes but lack formal funding. The American Heart Association's Rheumatic Fever, Endocarditis, Kawasaki Disease Committee prepared the advisory, which underscores the need for harmonized efforts to build local expertise and strengthen care systems. The full manuscript is available online. This initiative is a call to action for global health stakeholders to prioritize equitable care for all children with Kawasaki disease.