Jaipur, Sept. 13 -- Timely detection of valve-related heart diseases is critical, and echocardiography is the most effective tool for it, experts said at the International Conference India Valves 2025. Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. Ashok Seth, speaking on the second day of the conference on Friday, emphasized that if an echocardiography test result is normal, individuals above 40 years of age should repeat the test annually. "Valve disease can be as dangerous and life-threatening as coronary artery disease, hence regular monitoring is essential," he noted. Dr. Seth said rheumatic fever in childhood is a major cause of serious heart valve diseases later in life. Beginning with throat infections, it can cause permanent damage to the valves. htc...