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Published on: July 18, 2014
Paediatric and congenital heart disease in South America: an overview
C A C Pedra1, J Haddad, S F Pedra
1Catheterisation Laboratory for Congenital Heart Disease, Instituto Dante Pazzanese de Cardiologia, Av Dr Dante Pazzanese 500, 14 andar, CEP 04012-180, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. cacpedra@uol.com.br
Insights
Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects 8 in 1000 newborns, posing a significant public health challenge in South America due to high birth rates. This review examines CHD prevalence, treatment availability, and outcomes across the region.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Congenital heart disease (CHD) represents a major global health issue, being the most common type of birth defect.
- South American countries, characterized by high birth rates, face a substantial burden from CHD.
- Understanding the regional epidemiology and clinical management of CHD is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the congenital heart disease burden in South America.
- To analyze the prevalence, treatment facilities, and outcomes of common CHDs in the region.
- To highlight the public health implications of CHD in South America.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on congenital heart disease in South America.
- Analysis of data on CHD prevalence, incidence, and mortality.
- Examination of treatment modalities including medical, surgical, and catheter interventions.
- Assessment of patient outcomes following various interventions.
Main Results:
- Congenital heart disease affects approximately 8 per 1000 live births in South America.
- Significant variations in prevalence and access to specialized treatment facilities exist across South American nations.
- Outcomes following medical, surgical, and catheter interventions for common CHDs show regional disparities.
Conclusions:
- Congenital heart disease is a significant and prevalent public health concern in South America.
- Addressing the disparities in treatment access and quality is essential for improving outcomes for children with CHD in the region.
- Further research and collaborative efforts are needed to mitigate the impact of CHD in South America.
Abstract:
Congenital heart diseases are one of the most common structural defects present at birth, with an approximate incidence of 8 per 1000 live births. As most countries in South America have a high birth rate, they are a significant public health concern. This paper provides a brief overview of the burden of congenital heart disease in South America, focusing on its local prevalence, facilities for treatment and outcomes after medical, surgical or catheter intervention for the most common diseases.
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