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Congenital heart defect (CHD) describes a heart condition or defect that developed in the womb. The term “congenital” means the condition is present from birth. The Somerville Foundation is the UK’s only charity that supports Adult Congenital Heart Patients (ACHD).
CHD is one of the most common types of congenital disability, affecting up to eight in every 1,000 babies. Today, there are over 250,000 adults who were born with such a condition living in the UK. And there are now more adults than children living with the condition.
These patients all have different experiences, struggles and achievements. We provide support for adults born with heart disease.
And, with many distinct types of CHD, we aim to ensure they all receive the medical care, support and advice they need to lead happy, healthy lives.
But we can’t do it alone. In order to ensure they enjoy access to every opportunity, are free from discrimination, and are fully supported throughout their lives, we need your help.
Treating Congenital Heart Defects.
Treatment for CHD depends on the type and severity of the condition. For minor problems, treatment may never be needed, while others may require medication or heart surgery; often throughout adulthood.
Just 60 years ago, the majority of babies born with a congenital heart defect did not survive to see their first birthday. Today, eight out of ten survive to adulthood*.
But there is much more that can be done.
Help us make a difference.
*Source: The BHF
What causes congenital heart defects?
In most cases, there is no apparent cause of congenital heart defects. We just don’t know why a heart hasn’t developed normally.
However, some things do increase the risk of CHD. These include:
- Down’s syndrome
- Infections (of the mother) during pregnancy (e.g. rubella)
- Where the mother has taken certain medications while pregnant (e.g. anticoagulants or antiepileptics)
- Where the mother has experienced diabetes during pregnancy
- Inherited chromosome/gene defects
- The mother smoking or drinking alcohol during pregnancy
CHD is sometimes picked up during an ultrasound scan before a baby is born. However, in many cases CHD is not diagnosed until after the baby is born. Some conditions may not be discovered until the child becomes an adult.
