February 7-14

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week

Join us in raising awareness for Congenital Heart Defects during this important week - together, we can spread knowledge and support those affected.

Yearly Date

February 7

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to raise awareness and show support for those affected by congenital heart defects during Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, which takes place every year from Feb. 7-14. This week-long event was established in 2001 by the Congenital Heart Information Network (CHIN) to educate the public about this common birth defect that affects approximately 40,000 babies each year in the United States alone. It's a time to celebrate survivors, honor those who have lost their lives, and spread knowledge about this important cause. So let's come together and make a difference during Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week!

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week Timeline

1944

First Successful Repair

Surgeons at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore performed the first successful repair of a congenital heart defect.

1954

Heart-Lung Machine Development

The heart-lung machine enabling open-heart surgery was successfully used on a patient with a congenital heart defect.

1998

Children's Heart Foundation Founded

Children's Heart Foundation was established, which played a significant role in funding research for congenital heart defect treatments.

2000s

Genetic Links Discovery

Researchers found genetic links to certain congenital heart defects, leading to advancements in early detection.

2015

First Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week was celebrated for the first time across the U.S to raise awareness around the condition.

How to Celebrate Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week

1 Wear Red Day

Designate a day during the week as "Wear Red Day" and encourage everyone to wear red in support of Congenital Heart Defect Awareness.

2 Organize a Charity Walk/Run

Plan a charity walk or run in your community to raise funds and awareness for Congenital Heart Defects. You can also partner with an existing charity walk/run and create a team to participate.

3 Host a Heart Healthy Potluck

Gather friends and family together for a heart healthy potluck. Encourage everyone to bring dishes that are low in salt and sugar, and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

4 Share Stories on Social Media

Use social media to share stories of individuals and families affected by Congenital Heart Defects. This can help raise awareness and educate others about the condition.

5 Host a Fundraising Event

Organize a fundraising event, such as a bake sale, silent auction, or concert, to raise money for Congenital Heart Defect research and support organizations.

Why Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week is Important

It raises awareness for a common birth defect

Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs) are one of the most common types of birth defects, affecting about 1 in every 110 babies born in the United States. By observing Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, we can inform and educate people about this issue.

It provides support for individuals and families affected by CHDs

For those living with CHDs or caring for someone with this condition, Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week serves as a reminder that they are not alone. It also provides resources and opportunities to connect with others who may understand their experiences.

It encourages early detection and proper treatment

With increased awareness comes increased chances of early detection and proper treatment for CHDs. Observing this week can encourage parents and healthcare providers to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of CHDs, potentially leading to better outcomes for affected individuals.