UNITED TO #ENDRHD
From 11–14 November 2026 in Perth, Australia, the global rheumatic heart disease community will come together to share knowledge, strengthen collaboration and advance action to end RHD worldwide.
<h1><span class="has-h1-size has-heading-font is-uppercase" style="color: #ffffff;">World Congress On Rheumatic Heart Disease</span></h1>
A global platform to help end rheumatic heart disease
About the Congress
The World Congress on Rheumatic Heart Disease, hosted by the World Heart Federation in partnership with other leading organisations in the field, brings together global experts on rheumatic heart disease (RHD), including researchers, practitioners, patients and advocates, to discover the latest research, engage with global leaders, and explore practical and effective solutions to ending rheumatic heart disease once and for all.
Virtually eradicated in large parts of the world, RHD continues to have a devastating impact on vulnerable communities in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, South and South-East Asia and the Western Pacific, affecting an estimated 55 million people and claiming more than 360,000 lives every year.
Following the inaugural Congress in 2023, the second edition will take place from 11–14 November 2026 in Perth, Australia, co-organised by the World Heart Federation and the National Heart Foundation of Australia. The Congress will highlight both the global burden of RHD—particularly in low- and middle-income countries—and the national context in Australia, where the disease disproportionately affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
KEEPING RHD ON THE GLOBAL AGENDA
Why it matters
The Congress provides an important opportunity to bring together the global RHD community around a disease that remains a major and preventable cause of illness and death in many parts of the world.
By connecting research, policy, lived experience and practice, the Congress supports stronger collaboration and sustained momentum toward ending rheumatic heart disease.
55 Million
people living with RHD worldwide
360,000 +
deaths estimated each year
A diverse and engaging programme
What to expect
The programme will feature a diverse and engaging scientific agenda, fostering inclusive global dialogue and collaboration across the RHD field.
- Latest research and scientific exchange
- Engagement with global leaders and experts
- Opportunities for abstract submissions
- Travel grants to support broader participation
- Collaboration across research, practice, advocacy and lived experience
WATCH RECORDINGS FROM THE 2023 CONGRESS
The Beat of Change: Rheumatic Heart Disease in Mozambique
Rosa's Story
Celia's Story
Resources
