Fortis Charitable Foundation supports children with Congenital Heart Defect

Fortis Charitable Foundation (FCF) treats more than 1000 underprivileged children suffering from Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) every year.

Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) is the structural or functional abnormality in the heart that is present at birth. This may pose a grave threat to the well-being of the child or can even lead to death.

Under Fortis Foundations AANCHAL Programme, the 'UMEED-DHADKAN' initiative has set a high benchmark that has helped maximum numbers of children with CHD in the country.

FCF works closely with key partners which include Being Human Foundation, Rotary Trust and Needy Heart Foundation to provide treatment.

UMEED is an intervention under the AANCHAL programme designed to provide healthcare service for children from underprivileged section of the society suffering from CHD and who may not have access to quality healthcare.

According to a report[i], the prevalence of CHD varies anywhere between 2.25 to 5.2/ 1000 live births. The report suggests that approximately 10% of infant mortality in India can be attributed to CHD alone. CHD along with neural tube defects account for two thirds of all major birth defects[ii].

Krishna was diagnosed with Congenital Heart Defect at birth. His father worked as a cook at a small restaurant, earning a meager salary of Rs.800 per month. Initially the owner of the restaurant assured the family for financial support but lastly it did not happen. Finally Shyam reach out to Fortis Charitable Foundation (FCF) and Being Human Foundation where Krishna got the treatment.

Shyam, father of Krishna, said, "Managing the medical expenses for Krishna has been nearly impossible. I have sold all my assets and taken loans from several people. Getting support for Krishna's treatment from Fortis Foundation and Being Human Foundation has been a miracle."

Despite the magnitude of the CHD problem, it is still largely unrecognized, understated, and underestimated. But timely detection and proper intervention can help children suffering from CHD lead a healthy life.

The mortality rate due to CHD can be arrested by early detection, supporting care and surgical correction.

Fortis Healthcare has world class expertise in treating CHD. As an executing partner of FCF, the children treated under 'Umeed-Dhadkan' are not just treated for CHD but have the best of patient care.

Speaking at this humble milestone, Jasbir Grewal, Head, Fortis Charitable Foundation said, "Umeed-Dhadkan" is an intervention that brings hope to hundreds of children suffering from Congenital Heart Defect. Congenital Heart Defect is one of the major reasons for death among infants.