Rising Concern: Over 11,800 Children in Maharashtra Diagnosed

A worrying rise in pediatric heart disease cases has been reported in Maharashtra. According to official health records, 11,840 children in the state were diagnosed with serious heart-related disorders in the last three and a half years.

Out of these, 11,336 children have undergone heart surgeries under government health programs, while 504 children are currently under treatment.

Screening Under National Child Health Programme

As part of the National Child Health Programme (RBSK), routine health checkups are conducted in:

Anganwadi centers

Government schools

Semi-government educational institutions

Any detected medical condition, including congenital heart disease, is treated free of cost under state-supported schemes.

This data was obtained through an RTI request by activist Abhay Kolarkar.

Symptoms of Heart Disease in Children

Symptoms in children often differ from adults. Doctors warn parents to watch for:

Difficulty breathing

Sudden tiredness or weakness

Chest discomfort or pain

Excessive sweating

Poor weight gain

Nausea or vomiting

Rapid heartbeat

Sudden fainting episodes

Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Causes of Heart Disease in Children

Medical experts explain that heart defects may be:

Congenital (present at birth) — affecting heart muscles or valves
Post-infection complications, such as from strep throat or scarlet fever
Inflammatory illnesses, including Kawasaki Disease, which can damage coronary arteries
Nutritional deficiencies or other developmental disorders

Some cases develop later due to health conditions or infections.

Treatment Available Through Medication and Surgery

Treatment depends on severity and may include:

Prescription medication

Catheter-based heart repair

Valve replacement

Surgical correction of structural defects

Many children require surgery to prevent long-term complications.

Over 150 Surgeries per Year in Nagpur Alone

Dr. Nivrutti Rathod, District Civil Surgeon, said:

“The state provides free heart surgeries for children. In Nagpur alone, more than 150 pediatric heart surgeries are performed every year. Prevention is possible through proper prenatal care and nutrition after birth.”

He emphasized that awareness among parents can control the rising trend of congenital and developmental heart disease in children.