Caring for children living with rheumatic heart disease should not be a burden carried by mothers alone, says Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran.
She made the comment while launching World Heart Month 2026 at the Grand Pacific Hotel as part of a global campaign to raise awareness on cardiovascular disease.
“Fathers, grandparents, guardians and extended family members all have a critical role to play in lifting this burden,” she said.
Ms Kiran urged parents and caregivers to take symptoms such as persistent sore throats and painful joints seriously and seek medical attention early.
She also called on people to regularly check their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
“Every heartbeat matters. Each of us has a profound responsibility to protect our own health and the health of those we care for.”
Ms Kiran said financial hardship, transport difficulties, poor housing and limited access to services could prevent families from maintaining treatment.
The theme for World Heart Month 2026 is “Don’t miss a beat”.
