Bengaluru: Around 41,000 children in Karnataka are living with congenital heart disease (CHD), according to the state health department. Officials emphasised that early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial to reducing infant and under-five mortality in the state.

Understanding congenital heart disease

CHD is the most common birth defect and arises due to abnormal development of the heart or blood vessels during foetal growth. The condition varies in severity, from minor defects like small holes in the heart to serious malformations such as underdeveloped heart chambers or defective valves.

Experts note that untreated CHD can significantly impact a child’s health, leading to complications such as heart failure, growth delays, and reduced life expectancy. Early intervention is therefore critical.

Detection and treatment under state schemes

The 41,000 cases were identified through screenings conducted under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK). Children diagnosed with CHD are receiving care under the Ayushman Bharat–Arogya Karnataka scheme, with referrals made to tertiary hospitals and Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST)-linked institutions offering free treatment.

Officials also highlighted plans to strengthen early detection by integrating prenatal ultrasound scans with neonatal check-ups. This strategy aims to identify high-risk infants early, enabling timely interventions when treatments are most effective.

National context and challenges

India records nearly two million newborns with congenital heart defects annually, with 8 out of every 1,000 live births affected. Despite advances in treatment, surgical mortality rates remain higher than in high-income countries, reflecting challenges in access and early detection.

Delayed diagnosis continues to be a significant barrier, often resulting in missed opportunities for life-saving interventions. Healthcare experts stress that improved screening, awareness among parents, and strengthened referral systems are essential to tackle CHD effectively.

Conclusion

With the integration of prenatal and neonatal screening, Karnataka aims to improve early detection and treatment of CHD, ensuring affected children have access to timely care. Officials hope these measures will reduce infant mortality and improve long-term outcomes for thousands of children across the state.