Prevalence, clinical characteristics, and growth implications of congenital heart disease in pediatric patients: a single-center retrospective study from India

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD) with structural defects of hearts and vessels is associated with significant mortality in pediatric population. Early timely intervention is critical. This study aims to examine the demographics and clinical profiles of pediatric population with CHD from India. Methods: A retrospective observational study conducted at a district hospital in pediatric patients diagnosed with CHD. Basic demographics, clinical symptoms, diagnostic procedures and growth parameters were collated and analyzed. Analysis involved descriptive statistics and Chi-square test for proportions comparing different types of CHD. Results: In this retrospective study of pediatric CHD cases (n=141) from India, acyanotic lesions predominated (87.2%), with ventricular and atrial septal defects (ASDs) most common. Over half were diagnosed within six months, though delays were notable in cyanotic CHD. Around one-third were asymptomatic at diagnosis, while others presented with classic symptoms like breathlessness and feeding difficulties. Over 90% showed growth below the 50th percentile, highlighting significant nutritional impact. Lesion type influenced timing and urgency of management. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for enhanced screening, early diagnosis, growth monitoring, and integrated nutritional support to optimize long-term outcomes in children with CHD.