140 children screened for heart defects at Chandrapur district hospital camp, 37 found fit for surgery
A free echo camp at Chandrapur District Hospital found 37 of 140 children eligible for surgery and pre-surgery evaluation, while 55 were placed on regular follow-up.
A free echocardiography camp for children was held at Chandrapur District Hospital. It was organised jointly by the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) and the District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC). Hearts of 140 children were examined at the camp.
According to the results, 37 children were found eligible for surgery and pre-surgery evaluation. Fifty-five children have been placed on regular follow-up, while the 2D echo reports of 48 children were normal.
Under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram, special health camps are held to detect birth defects and diseases in children early. The aim is to ensure children get the necessary treatment, referral services, surgery and regular follow-up. The camp for children with heart disease was part of this effort.
The camp was inaugurated by District Surgeon Dr Bandu Ramteke and District Health Officer Dr Ashok Katare. Cardiologists Dr L. Srinivas and Dr Sonia Karapurkar of KIMS Hospital, Mumbai, examined the children closely with their medical team.
After the examination, parents were given medical advice on the nature of the illness, the need for further treatment and surgery. As required, parents were also informed about medication, further tests and treatment for their children.
It was said that if congenital heart disease and several other conditions in children are detected in time, the necessary treatment and referral services can be provided quickly. For this reason, the programme is stressing regular health check-ups, examination by specialist doctors when needed, and special camps.
The programme detects birth defects, childhood illnesses, vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies and developmental delays early. Children found with such problems are given medication, referral to a specialist, necessary surgery and regular follow-up.
The camp gave children with heart disease access to examination by specialist doctors within the district. Early identification of children needing surgery made it easier to give them the right referral and advice for further treatment. District Health Officer Dr Ashok Katare said such special camps will continue to be held regularly to provide good-quality health and referral services to children in the district.
