US medical mission sees 107 patients in Brava and highlights need for health reinforcement

A Cape Verdean cardiologist based in the United States, Doreen Faria, announced today the conclusion of a medical mission to the island of Brava, which resulted in 107 patients, including children and adults. The action, focused on screening for rheumatic heart disease, was well attended and revealed significant public health concerns.

According to the doctor, 22 children and 85 adults were examined and several cases of heart failure and other health problems were diagnosed. This was the first time the mission took place on Brava, although it has already been carried out on other islands in the archipelago. The team plans to return in April next year for further consultations.

Nurse Patrícia Recheado, in charge of the Brava Health Precinct, expressed her gratitude for the collaboration with the specialists from the USA, pointing out that, due to the school vacations, not all the children could be assessed, but she hopes that on a future visit a greater reach will be possible.

This initiative is part of the partnership between Cape Verde's Ministry of Health and the Cape Verdean medical diaspora, reinforcing the commitment to preventive medicine and strengthening the health system in the most vulnerable communities.