Congenital Heart Disease (CHD): An Overview

Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) refers to structural abnormalities of the heart present from birth. These defects can affect the heart's walls, valves, or blood vessels, leading to disrupted blood flow and impaired cardiac function. The severity of CHD varies; some individuals may experience no symptoms, while others may require immediate medical intervention.

Common Types of Congenital Heart Defects:

1. Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): A hole in the wall separating the two upper chambers of the heart (atria).
2. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): A hole in the wall between the two lower chambers (ventricles).
3. Tetralogy of Fallot: A combination of four heart defects that result in oxygen-poor blood flowing out of the heart and into the rest of the body.
4. Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA): A persistent opening between the aorta and the pulmonary artery.
5. Coarctation of the Aorta: Narrowing of the aorta, leading to increased blood pressure before the constriction and reduced pressure beyond it.

Symptoms of CHD:

• Rapid breathing
• Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin, lips, and nails)
• Fatigue, especially during feeding in infants
• Poor weight gain
• Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or areas around the eyes

Government Initiatives for CHD in India:

The Government of India has implemented several schemes to address CHD and other health conditions in children:

1. Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK): Launched under the National Health Mission, RBSK aims to improve child health by early identification and management of 30 health conditions, including birth defects like CHD. The program targets children from birth to 18 years and provides free treatment, including surgeries for conditions like CHD. Dedicated mobile health teams conduct screenings at Anganwadi centers and schools, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

2. Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN): This scheme provides financial assistance to patients living below the poverty line who are suffering from major life-threatening diseases, including CHD. The assistance is for treatment at government hospitals with super-specialty facilities. The maximum financial assistance admissible under the scheme is Rs. 15 lakh.

Role of Dhubri Medical College:

As a premier healthcare institution in Assam, Dhubri Medical College is committed to:

• Early Detection: Implementing regular screening programs for newborns and children to identify CHD and other congenital anomalies promptly.
• Comprehensive Treatment: Offering state-of-the-art medical and surgical interventions for children diagnosed with CHD, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
• Community Outreach: Collaborating with government initiatives like RBSK to conduct health camps and awareness programs, educating the community about CHD and the importance of early detection.
• Financial Assistance Guidance: Assisting eligible families in availing financial support through schemes like RAN, ensuring that economic constraints do not hinder access to essential treatments.

For more information or to schedule a screening, please contact the Department of Pediatrics at Dhubri Medical College.