NEWS RELEASE
CANADIAN CONGENITAL HEART ALLIANCE
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The Canadian Congenital Heart Alliance (CCHA) is marking Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Week (Feb. 7-14) with activities to educate Canadians about the most prevalent birth defect, affecting as many as one in 100 babies born and impacting more than a quarter-million Canadians throughout their entire lives.
For over 20 years, the Canadian Congenital Heart Alliance (CCHA) has been at the forefront of bringing awareness to congenital heart disease (CHD), a condition that remains somewhat little-known despite its prevalence. Since its inception, the CCHA has been dedicated to advocating for individuals affected by CHD, providing them with the support, resources, and education needed to navigate their unique health challenges.
Over the past two decades, significant advancements in medical care have dramatically improved the prognosis for individuals with CHD. These medical breakthroughs have allowed many more people to live well into adulthood, something that was not commonly seen in previous generations. For instance, survival rates for children with CHD have increased from about 70 per cent in the 1970s to over 90 per cent today, thanks to improved surgical techniques and comprehensive care.
Statistics Highlighting Progress
- 1/100 babies are born with some form of CHD
- In the 1970s, the survival rate for children with CHD was approximately 70 per cent.
- Today, more than 90 per cent of children with CHD survive into adulthood.
- It is estimated that there are close to adults living with CHD in Canada, a number that continues to grow as survival rates improve.
The CCHA continues to work tirelessly to raise awareness about CHD, support research initiatives, and provide resources for individuals and families affected by this condition. Looking ahead, the organization aims to further enhance the quality of life for those living with CHD by promoting early detection, advocating for specialized adult congenital heart disease clinics, and supporting innovations in treatment and care.
The CCHA's unwavering commitment has not only brought congenital heart disease to the forefront of public awareness but has also ensured that countless individuals receive the care and support they need to lead fulfilling lives. Their efforts have truly transformed the landscape of CHD care in Canada, and they remain dedicated to making even greater strides in the future.
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