To mark  Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) Awareness Week (7^th to 14^th Feb 2024), Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital For Children today disturbed heart-shaped red balloons and hosted engaging events to raise awareness about Congenital Heart Disease. The activities included educational sessions and a magical performance, and pediatric patients who underwent cardiac surgeries were felicitated on this occasion.

The cases of CHD in Indian children are a growing matter of concern.  Unfortunately, around 150,000-200,000 children are born each year with congenital heart disease in the country and require timely intervention. Despite advances in medical technology, many children in India lack access to timely diagnosis and treatment for CHD. This often results in high mortality rates and long-term health challenges for those who survive. The lack of awareness about CHD among parents also contributes to delayed diagnosis and intervention, leading to poorer outcomes for affected children. Efforts are needed to improve education about early detection and treatment options. Given the rising cases of CHD in children, Wadia Hospital organized an awareness program on CHD along with a Valentine’s Day celebration.

“The congenital heart disease awareness week began with a variety of engaging activities, including magic shows and educational sessions. The children were delighted and their faces lit up with smiles as they received heart-shaped red balloons. A special felicitation ceremony was held for the brave children who battled heart disease and underwent cardiac surgeries. Recognizing their resilience and strength in combating this condition, we celebrated their courage and determination in an inspiring event filled with love and support. Wadia Hospital serves as a testament to the transformative impact of compassionate care on pediatric patients facing complex health challenges.  The education sessions encouraged parents to be aware of the significance of timely screening, diagnosis, and treatment to enhance the quality of life for their children,” concluded Dr Minnie Bodhanwala, CEO of Wadia Hospital.