Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are present by birth itself and impact the structure of the baby’s heart and the way it works. CHDs are the most common types of birth defects ranging from mild such as a small hole in the heart to severe like missing or poorly formed parts of the heart. To recognize the struggle of children with CHDs, Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital For Children conducted a fun-filled event On The Occasion Of Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week to motivate these children to live a quality life.

Congenital Heart Defects tend to kill more children on a yearly basis than all childhood cancers combined. 1 in 100 children are born with congenital heart defects. Till now, Wadia Hospital has performed over 3,000 surgeries due to advanced medical care and treatment to help babies with CHDs live longer and healthier lives. CHDs are commonly seen in children, are curable and treatable without complications. Still, there is a lack of awareness regarding CHDs in society. Hence, the event aimed to motivate children having struggled with CHDS.

Dr Minnie Bodhanwala, CEO, Wadia Hospitals, said, “The Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week kick-started with a Walkathon followed by recognition of the children with CHDs.We were delighted to see smiles on the faces of children whom we gave a fresh lease of life. The children danced, sang and enjoyed the event. Their happiness knew no bounds after receiving the heart-shaped balloon. CHD is a silent killer. Parents should understand the importance of screening, timely diagnosis, and treatment without any delay. Wadia Hospital aims to provide round-the-clock care to children with CHDs to reduce the morbidity and mortality in these patients.”