A new science advisory from the American Heart Association highlights the importance of global collaboration in reducing the risk of serious heart conditions for children with Kawasaki disease. Published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the advisory calls for inclusive international efforts to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where access to care is often limited.
Kawasaki disease is a rare but serious illness that primarily affects children under five, causing inflammation of blood vessels, especially the coronary arteries. It is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. Symptoms include fever, rash, red lips, and strawberry tongue. Prompt treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) can reduce the risk of coronary artery aneurysms from about 25% in untreated children to less than 5%, making early diagnosis critical.
Despite advances in management, delayed diagnosis remains a major barrier, particularly in regions with fewer health resources. The advisory notes that most current collaborative networks for Kawasaki disease lack formal funding, hindering progress. Chair of the writing group, Dr. Ashraf S. Harahsheh, emphasized, “When hospitals and health systems work together and compare how well they are doing, it can help identify local or regional challenges—such as gaps in resources or access to care—that need to be addressed.”
The advisory calls for a harmonized global approach that considers cultural needs, reduces barriers to care, and promotes evidence-based practices. It also stresses including patients, families, and advocacy groups to support patient-centered care. Future efforts should focus on building local expertise, mentoring clinical leaders, and strengthening care systems in LMICs. The full advisory is available in the Journal of the American Heart Association at https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.126.000000.
For more information about Kawasaki disease, visit the American Heart Association’s website at https://www.heart.org.
