Incidence of acute rheumatic fever in the world: A systematic review of population-based studies
Date
2008
Authors
Tibazarwa K.B.
Volmink J.A.
Mayosi B.M.
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Abstract
Background: There is no systematic overview of prospective studies of incidence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) in the world. Aim: To summarise all population-based studies of the incidence of ARF world wide. Method: A systematic review of prospective population-based studies of the overall mean and annual specific incidence of the first episode of ARF was carried out. Results: A systematic literature search identified 10 eligible studies from 10 countries on all continents, except Africa. The overall mean incidence rate of first attack of ARF was 5-51/100 000 population (mean 19/100 000; 95% CI 9 to 30/100 000). A low incidence rate of ≤ 10/100 000 per year was found in America and Western Europe, while a higher incidence (>10/100 000) was documented in Eastern Europe, Middle East (highest), Asia and Australasia. Studies with longitudinal data displayed a falling incidence rate over time. Conclusion: Despite an apparent fall in incidence over time, ARF incidence rates remain relatively high in non-Western countries. No information is available for Africa.
Description
Keywords
geography, health survey, human, incidence, longitudinal study, medical literature, population based case control study, priority journal, prospective study, review, rheumatic fever, risk factor, systematic review, Acute Disease, Cost of Illness, Epidemiologic Methods, Female, Humans, Incidence, Male, Prospective Studies, Rheumatic Fever, World Health
Citation
Heart
94
12
94
12