Establishing Fetal Cardiac Anomalies Diagnosis Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)

Abstract

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the leading causes of death among neonates and infants worldwide regardless of economic status. This burden is even higher among the low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) where there is a scarcity of the necessary resources for diagnosis and treatment. The prevalence of this condition is often underreported in the LMIC due to poor reporting systems. However, there are reports that the prevalence of CHD is higher in the LMIC compared to the higher-income countries. The aetiology is multifactorial with influences from both environment and genetics. The unavailability of ultrasound machines, appropriately trained personnel, established policies and standards, and poor access to facilities have contributed immensely to the burden of the disease. Underpinning this is the lack of appropriate healthcare financing. It calls for the involvement of all and sundry, individuals and corporate bodies, governmental and non-governmental organisations to support the development of services for the diagnosis and management of congenital cardiac services. This article, therefore, set out to highlight the burden and challenges with the diagnosis of fetal cardiac anomalies in the LMIC and proffer solutions to this. If the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, in particular goals 3 (ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages) and 10 (reduce inequalities within and among countries), are to be met, attention must be given to the establishment of sustainable services for effective and efficient diagnosis and management of congenital heart diseases in the LMIC.