Jamshedpur: A major health concern has surfaced in Jamshedpur, after medical screenings at a free heart check-up camp revealed that nearly one in every five children examined was suffering from a heart-related disorder. The disturbing findings have triggered widespread concern among doctors, health authorities, and parents.
Shocking Findings at Free Heart Screening Camp
During the camp, 10 out of 49 children examined were diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD). The high number of affected children identified in a single camp has sounded alarm bells, with medical experts warning that delayed diagnosis could have proven life-threatening in several cases.
Two-Day Camp Under ‘Nanha Sa Dil’ Programme
The two-day free heart screening camp is being organised at Shri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital, Bistupur, under the ‘Nanha Sa Dil – Congenital Heart Disease Prevention and Treatment Programme’, with support from the Civil Surgeon Office, East Singhbhum.
The preliminary report prepared on the very first day of screening left everyone stunned, as nearly 20 per cent of the children were found to be suffering from heart disorders at varying levels.
Children Aged Newborn to 18 Years Screened
Experienced cardiologists conducted detailed examinations of newborns to children up to 18 years of age. The screening included evaluation of heart structure, blood flow, and heartbeat patterns.
Doctors noted that in many cases, the disease was present since birth but went unnoticed due to the absence of clear symptoms, leaving parents unaware of the condition.
Children to Be Referred to Advanced Medical Centres
According to the health department, the 10 children diagnosed with congenital heart disease will be referred for advanced treatment and surgery, if required, to specialised centres in Hyderabad (Kondapaka), Navi Mumbai (Kharghar), Raipur (Chhattisgarh), and Palwal (Haryana).
Importantly, all treatment will be completely free, ensuring no financial burden on economically weaker families.
Ignoring Symptoms Can Be Dangerous
Doctors warned parents not to ignore warning signs such as:
- Bluish lips or skin
- Excessive sweating while feeding
- Frequent cold or fever
- Poor weight gain
- Fatigue and breathlessness
“These symptoms are often mistaken for general weakness, but they could indicate serious congenital heart disease,” specialists cautioned.
Early Detection Can Save Lives: Civil Surgeon
Civil Surgeon Dr Sahir Pal said the data suggests that many cases of congenital heart disease remain hidden in society. He urged parents to seek immediate medical examination if any abnormal symptoms are observed in children.
“Timely diagnosis and proper treatment can help children lead a completely normal life,” he said.
Major Step Towards Child Health and Public Awareness
Health experts believe that such free screening camps not only help in early detection of life-threatening diseases but also play a crucial role in spreading health awareness. The ‘Nanha Sa Dil’ programme is being seen as a significant and effective initiative to strengthen child healthcare services in East Singhbhum district.
