A science advisory from the American Heart Association, published on May 18, 2026, calls for expanded global teamwork to tackle Kawasaki disease.
About Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki disease is a rare illness primarily affecting children under five years of age. It causes inflammation of blood vessels, particularly the coronary arteries, and is a leading cause of acquired heart disease in children. Symptoms can include fever, rash, red lips, and "strawberry tongue."
The cause of Kawasaki disease is unknown but is suspected to be an abnormal immune response to an infectious trigger in genetically predisposed children.
Incidence and Risk
- In the United States, more than 4,200 children are diagnosed annually.
- The incidence is 10 to 30 times higher in East Asian countries, including Japan, South Korea, China, and Taiwan.
- Without treatment, approximately one in four children (about 25%) may develop coronary artery aneurysms.
- Prompt treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) reduces the risk of coronary artery aneurysm to under 5%.
"Without treatment, approximately one in four children may develop coronary artery aneurysms."
Advisory Recommendations
The advisory highlights that early diagnosis and treatment are critical, and delayed diagnosis remains a major barrier, particularly in resource-limited settings. The writing group made the following recommendations:
- Strengthen capacity: Improve diagnostic and treatment capabilities in regions with limited access to care.
- Establish inclusive collaborations: Develop international networks that account for cultural, linguistic, and resource differences.
- Involve stakeholders: Include patients, families, and advocacy groups to support patient-centered care.
- Focus on quality improvement: Build local expertise, mentor clinical leaders, and strengthen health systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Current Challenges
According to the advisory, existing collaborative networks often lack formal funding, and most progress has occurred in economically advanced countries. The writing group, chaired by Ashraf S. Harahsheh, M.D., FAHA, noted that international collaboration can reduce disparities and improve outcomes through sharing data, expertise, and best practices.
"International collaboration can reduce disparities and improve outcomes through sharing data, expertise, and best practices."