TITLE:
Heart Valve Surgery in Cameroon: Background and Perspectives
AUTHORS:
William Ngatchou, Sarah Heenen, Laurence Carole Ngo Yon, Virginie Guimfacq, Zephanie Kobe Fokalbo, Alain Patrick Menanga, Hermann Nestor Tsague Kegni, Jérôme Bombhi, Liliane Mfeukeu-Kuate, Christian Ngongang Ouankou, David Douglas Banga Nkomo, Dzudié Anastase, Félicité Kamdem, Siddick Mouliom, Viche Lade, Valerie Ndobo, Marie Solange Ebongue Ndom, Junette Metogo, Joseph Sango, Aymard Kack Bilong, Philippe Gottignies, Diane-Estelle Ngatchou-Djomo, Charles Mve Mvondo
KEYWORDS:
Rheumatic Heart Disease, Valvular Surgery, Cardiac Surgery, Cameroon, Sub-Saharan Africa, Universal Health Coverage
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Cardiovascular Diseases,
Vol.15 No.11,
November
25,
2025
ABSTRACT: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and its sequela, rheumatic heart disease (RHD), remain major causes of morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Cameroon, RHD accounts for a considerable share of pediatric and adolescent heart disease. Severe valvular involvement often requires surgical intervention, but access to cardiac surgery is critically constrained. Since the 1980s, cardiac surgery in Cameroon has evolved from sporadic humanitarian missions to structured initiatives at the Douala and Yaoundé General Hospital and also the Shisong Cardiac Center. This article sheds light on the historical development and current state of cardiac surgery in Cameroon, emphasizing RHD as the leading surgical indication. It highlights both achievements and persistent gaps, and outlines perspectives for sustainability, including national training pathways, diaspora engagement, research and innovation, public-private partnerships, and South-South collaboration. Strengthening local capacity, securing sustainable financing mechanisms such as universal health coverage, and fostering regional cooperation are essential to build autonomous, resilient cardiac surgery programs in Cameroon. Addressing these priorities will be critical to improving access to timely surgical care and reducing preventable mortality from rheumatic heart disease.