ISLAMABAD, Dec 9 (APP/DNA): Pediatric Cardiology Tuesday stressed about the rising cases of ‘Congenital heart disease’ in Pakistan, urging pregnant women to consult nutritionists, undergo monthly screenings and avoid cousin marriages to reduce
risks.
The Head of Pediatric Cardiology, Dr. Abdul Sittar Sheikh, in an exclusive conversation with a local news channel, explained that heart disease can affect newborns and children, not just adults.
Some congenital defects are mild, while others are complex and may require multiple surgeries, he said, adding, serious conditions are often detected before or soon after birth and he urged parents to seek immediate medical care if any symptoms appear to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. added that heart disease in children can impair growth and even lead to life-threatening complications.
He said parents should seek urgent medical care if key warning signs appear, including: shortness of breath or easy fatigue, blue-gray discoloration of the skin, rapid heartbeat or fainting spells, unexplained chest pain, and irregular heart sounds detected by a specialist.
He further stressed for urgent need for greater awareness about proper nutrition for women planning to become mothers.
He highlighted that guidance from a qualified nutritionist can help ensure a healthier pregnancy and reduce risks linked to poor maternal health.
Dr. Sheikh noted that regular screening of pregnant women is essential, especially to prevent anemia, which remains common among women in Pakistan and can lead to complications for both mother and baby.
He also stressed the importance of folic acid intake before and during early pregnancy to lower the chances of congenital abnormalities, including certain heart defects.
He further stated that the rise in babies born with congenital heart disease is strongly connected to weak maternal health and cousin marriages, both of which increase the likelihood of heart defects in newborns.
Dr. Sheikh urged families and healthcare providers to focus on maternal nutrition, early screenings, and genetic awareness to help reduce this growing health burden.
Responding a query, he said that with timely diagnosis, advanced surgeries and modern technologies are available to treat congenital heart diseases at early stages, he concluded.
