This episode of Mindful Merseyside discusses congenital heart disease (CHD), a common birth defect affecting one in every hundred newborn babies. The episode explores the diagnosis and treatment of CHD, as well as a study being conducted at Liverpool John Moores University to improve diagnostic rates. The episode also features interviews with families affected by CHD, providing insights into their experiences. The long-term goal of the study is to develop a blood test that can accurately diagnose CHD in unborn babies, improving their life prospects.

Takeaways

• Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a common birth defect affecting one in every hundred newborn babies.

• Early diagnosis of CHD is crucial for better treatment outcomes.

• A study at Liverpool John Moores University aims to develop a blood test for diagnosing CHD in unborn babies.

• Families affected by CHD face challenges but find strength and support in their journey.

Help & Support

If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:

• Team 1C cardiac patient support group at Alder Hey children’s hospital https://www.team1c.org/

• British Heart Foundation support information https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/support

• Northwest congenital heart network: Finding Out About a Heart Problem Before Your Baby is Born https://www.northwestchdnetwork.nhs.uk/fetal-pathway/

• Heart Research UK https://heartresearch.org.uk/

• BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

Credits

"Mindful Merseyside" is brought to you by the Institute for Health Research at Liverpool John Moores University.

Guest Series Presenter: Gemma Cutting. Produced and distributed by Innobella Media.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Congenital Heart Disease

03:33 What is Congenital Heart Disease?

05:00 Diagnosis and Treatment of CHD

08:26 The Study: Improving Diagnostic Rates

16:22 Family Perspectives on CHD