|
A Healthy Heart Wish for Valentine’s Day |
|
|
|
Wednesday, 01 February 2006 |
Most people associate February with hearts—chocolate hearts, paper hearts and healthy hearts. February is National Heart Month, a time for parents to think about not only their own heart health, but also their children’s.
The number of children born with a congenital heart defect each year–40,000–would fill Chicago’s Wrigley Field to maximum capacity—with standing room only! With these staggering statistics, it’s important to know your family’s health history to help determine whether or not your child may be at risk for congenital heart disease.
Little Known Facts About Congenital Heart Disease:
- It is the most common birth defect.
- It affects 1 in 100 newborns.
- It is the number one cause of death from birth defects during infancy.
- The first symptom of a heart defect can also be the last.
Check your family’s heart history and share the information with your doctor and your child’s pediatrician. It can make a life-saving difference.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, one of the leading pediatric healthcare systems in the country, is a not-for-profit organization that that is nationally recognized for excellence in cardiac, cancer, transplant, orthopaedic and neonatal care, as well as in many other pediatric specialties. To learn more about Children’s, visit www.choa.org or call 404-250-KIDS.
|
Family Health