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RAISING CHD AWARENESS
Information about Congenital Heart Defects in Canada from the Canadian Congenital Heart Alliance
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the world’s leading birth defect. About 1 in 100 Canadian children are born with a congenital heart defect. Sixty years ago approximately 20% of children born with a CHD survived to adulthood. Today, that number has since increased to about 90% – resulting in a growing population of young adults who require life-long cardiac care in Canada.
Types of Congenital Heart Defects
There are over 40 specific types of CHD which fall under two main categories:
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1. Holes In The Heart
2. Obstruction of Blood Flow
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Emberly had multiple defects which fell under both of these categories.
Treatment
Treatment for congenital heart defects may will vary depending on the diagnosis itself. This may include minor intervention such as routine appointments, to more serious interventions such as surgery or a heart transplant. A plan will be set in place specific to the individual's diagnosis and circumstances by their cardiology team. Perscription and/or over the counter medications may be used to treat symptoms and improve conditions before, during, and after surgery as well as temporarily or long term. There are many different types of medications an individual may be on which will be determined by their diagnosis.
For More Information
You can find more information about congenital heart defects in Canada here:
Canadian Congenital Heart Alliance
https://www.cchaforlife.org/facts-issues
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Children's Heart Network
https://www.childrensheartnetwork.org/resources/chd-fact-sheet/
Circle of Hearts Family Support Network
https://www.circleofhearts.ca/
Tiny HeartsCan Foundation
https://www.tinyheartscan.org/
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Western Canadian Children's Heart Network
https://wcchn.ca
