Clinical and geographic patterns of rheumatic heart disease in outpatients attending cardiology clinic in western Kenya.

Introduction: Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains a leading cause of cardiovascular mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Identifying high risk populations and geographic patterns of disease is crucial to developing RHD prevention and screening strategies in endemic areas.

Objectives: To identify clinical and geographical trends in RHD throughout western Kenya METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients <50years old attending adult cardiology clinic at a national referral hospital in western Kenya.

Mobile health for non-communicable diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review of the literature and strategic framework for research.

Background: Mobile health (mHealth) approaches for non-communicable disease (NCD) care seem particularly applicable to sub-Saharan Africa given the penetration of mobile phones in the region. The evidence to support its implementation has not been critically reviewed.

Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, a number of other databases, and grey literature for studies reported between 1992 and 2012 published in English or with an English abstract available.