Congenital Heart Disease Kills 78 Thousand Infants in India

In India, a staggering 78,000 infants born with congenital heart disease die. The reason for increased mortality includes inadequate healthcare facilities and lack of awareness.

Elaborating, the renowned surgeon -- who performed a successful heart operation on the former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in January 2009 -- said that there are two types of congenital heart defects in children, simple and complex.

Congenital Heart Disease – Septal Defects
Heart diseases that are present at birth are called “ Congenital heart diseases”.

‘Pediatric heart failure remains a pressing issue as it is the prime cause for death in children under the age of 5 world over. Heart disease ranks among the most prominent diseases among children.’

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"Some of the simple types of congenital heart defects close (cure) naturally, while others may close with or without surgery. The complex ones may require multiple surgeries to be performed over a period of several years," Dr. Panda explained.

Congenital Heart Disease in Kids

Yet, deaths in emergency departments and in-hospital admissions, which are significantly higher in kids compared with adults, remains the key factor for children.

This is due to the major differences in the available cures for heart diseases among children and adults, he said.

"While there are multiple FDA-approved medications to treat heart failure in adults, there is only one such option available to treat children," Dr. Panda pointed out.

An Active Heart
The heart pumps blood constantly providing the power to sustain life.

Detailing on the issue, he said that the first 6 weeks of pregnancy are critical for the development of the baby's heart, it begins to take shape and starts beating in this period and the major blood vessels that run to and from it also begin to develop.

"Studies have found that heart defects may begin to develop at this point in a baby's development, but there has been no proof as to how or what causes most of these faults. But, genetics, certain medical conditions, some medications, environmental or lifestyle factors like smoking, are suspect of playing a role," said Dr. Panda.

Test Your Knowledge on Coronary Heart Disease
Coronary heart disease is a direct consequence of today’s unhealthy lifestyle and food habits, which include a high-fat diet, inadequate exercise and loads of stress. Coronary heart disease is emerging as an epidemic of the modern world, affecting younger individuals and extending to poorer countries as well. Here is a quiz that will test your knowledge on basic terminology used in coronary heart disease.

Even children exhibit certain symptoms of cognitive heart diseases, like rapid breathing, blue tongue or fingernails, swelling in hands, legs, belly or around the eyes, breathlessness during feeding, quick exhaustion during activities or exercise, fatigue or fainting during physical activity, etc.

"Since the exact causes of heart diseases among children are unknown, it's best to follow certain precautions that can help reduce the overall risk in the child during pregnancy. No drinking or smoking, even second-hand smoke, regular vaccinations, manage any chronic health issues, check the blood-sugar levels, take multi-vitamins and consult a doctor before taking any medication," advised Dr. Panda.

Gene Sheds Insights into Congenital Heart Disease
VGLL4 gene key to embryo development is dispensable for myocardial growth and helps understand congenital heart defects and heart failure.

He said it is extremely important to learn about your child's congenital heart defects to understand the condition and what to expect in future.

"This way, you can be better prepared for anything that may come up in the long or short run to help your child at every step conquer his or her heart problems," urged Dr. Panda.

Source-IANS