The Mpumalanga Department of Health (DoH) paediatric cardiology team, together with other medical staff, conducted a successful congenital heart disease (CHD) public awareness programme at Rob Ferreira Hospital on Friday, February 13. CHD Awareness Week is observed from February 7 to 14.

CHD is the most common birth defect worldwide, affecting nearly one in 100 babies.

This is why it is essential to improve long-term survival rates, increase quality of life, and ensure proper medical management, even after surgery.

Speaking during the programme, Dr Zinzile Ngwenyama, a paediatric cardiologist, said: “It is important to have knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at educating the public and creating awareness about CHD, while supporting those living with this condition. Educating patients and families about their specific condition empowers them to understand their medical history, recognise warning signs of deterioration, and manage their health proactively.”

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To change the narrative and dispel the myth that surgery ‘fixes’ a heart defect forever, education is crucial. It must be highlighted that CHD is a lifelong condition requiring ongoing, specialised care.

Highlighting stories of people living with CHD provides hope, reduces feelings of isolation, and helps families navigate their own journeys.

Throughout the sessions, there were one-on-one interactions with parents and children to provide clarity and guidance.

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To show support for this initiative, medical staff wore red in collaboration with the paediatric cardiology team.