Heart disease is the number one cause of death in Belize, particularly rheumatic heart disease. Rheumatic heart disease is a chronic condition caused by rheumatic fever that affects the heart valve. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and death. The International Medical Outreach Program in collaboration with healthcare facilities here in the country hosts the heart of Belize community outreach, for cardiac screenings for rheumatic heart disease and other heart abnormalities. Last year, over 160 people were screened in the Stann Creek District. This event provides an outlet for the public, particularly the underserved, to be screened and educated on the risks of rheumatic heart disease, giving way to early detection and thus saving lives.
This year “The Heart of Belize” 3rd Annual clinic is to be held in Toledo district. This clinic will be held at the Punta Gorda polyclinic on the 17 July and at the Isabella polyclinic in San Antonio on the 18th July. Youth at risk will receive an EKG test or a cardiac echocardiography scan on-site, and all youth will be encouraged to learn more about heart health at an education station. All screenings will be free for all participants.
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