Status and Challenges of Care in Africa for Adults With Congenital Heart Defects

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Cardiology

Background:

• An estimated 300,486 annual congenital heart defect (CHD) births occur across Africa.
• Over half of these cases are concentrated in just seven African nations.
• CHD is predominantly a pediatric concern due to underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure, limiting adult care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the substantial burden of congenital heart defects in Africa.
• To underscore the challenges posed by deficient healthcare systems in managing CHD.
• To project the future strain on CHD care systems given Africa's population growth.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of estimated birth prevalence data for congenital heart defects across 54 African countries.
• Examination of the proportion of adult patients within CHD cases in specific countries (Ghana, Mozambique).
• Consideration of projected population growth in Africa.

Main Results:

• Estimated 300,486 annual CHD births in Africa.
• High concentration of cases in specific countries (51.4% in seven nations).
• Low adult representation in CHD patient populations (e.g., 10% in Ghana, 13.7% in Mozambique surgical cases).

Conclusions:

• Congenital heart disease presents a major public health challenge in Africa.
• Existing healthcare systems are ill-equipped to manage the current and future CHD burden.
• Urgent, decisive action from African leaders is critical to address the escalating crisis.