The opening of the SGPGI Saloni Heart Foundation Centre in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, represents a major breakthrough in the treatment of infants with congenital cardiac conditions. In Uttar Pradesh alone, an estimated 75,000 babies are impacted by these illnesses annually; this clinic is the first of its kind in the state and is intended to meet their urgent requirements.
Infants’ life can be significantly impacted by congenital heart disorders, which are dangerous medical illnesses. Every year in India, about 2.4 lakh (240,000) newborns are born with congenital problems, and an estimated 48,000 of them need surgery to survive. Sadly, a lack of resources frequently results in catastrophic outcomes; many of these infants either die while awaiting surgery or experience life-threatening complications.
With only ten specialized pediatric cardiac hospitals nationwide doing about 15,000 procedures annually, the situation in India was critical prior to the founding of the Saloni Heart Foundation Centre. Nearly 68% of the 48,000 babies who require surgery either do not receive prompt treatment or pass away from complications related to their disease as a result of this acute lack of resources.
With 30 beds and a fully furnished intensive care unit, the recently opened facility greatly expands the state’s ability to care for these susceptible individuals. The joint effort to address this public health issue is demonstrated by the attendance of Mrinalini Seth, the founder and president of the Saloni Heart Foundation USA, and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the ceremony.
Comparing children with congenital cardiac problems to those in wealthy countries reveals a significant difference in survival rates. Approximately 97% of impacted youngsters in the US survive because to prompt surgical procedures and well-established healthcare infrastructure. An important step in closing this gap in India is the opening of the SGPGI Saloni Heart Foundation Centre, which will give many Uttar Pradesh families the hope and medical attention they need.
In conclusion, the Saloni Heart Foundation Centre is an important step towards tackling Uttar Pradesh’s high rate of congenital cardiac conditions in infants. The institution hopes to enhance the overall healthcare environment for infants in the area by increasing access to surgical care, which will increase survival rates and decrease the number of deaths associated with congenital heart problems.
SOURCE :
TIMES OF INDIA