CHDFNigeria
In May 2025, The Congenital Heart Disease Foundation of Nigeria (CHDFNigeria) carried out a Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) awareness walk in Abeokuta, Ogun State – Nigeria, in commemoration of the annual national Children’s Day, bringing important information about CHD closer to families, caregivers, and communities. Through a city-wide awareness walk and hospital visits, the team reached over a thousand people with life-saving knowledge on early detection, prevention, and care.
On May 28, the team visited the Federal Medical Center, Abeokuta, where they engaged paediatric cardiology out-patients and general paediatric patients. Parents and caregivers were sensitised on: what congenital heart disease is, the signs and symptoms to watch for in newborns and children, and the importance of early screening, especially pulse oximetry immediately after birth. These conversations were necessary in empowering families to recognise warning signs early and seek timely medical care.
The following day, May 29, the outreach continued at the antenatal clinic of Oba Ademola II Maternity Hospital, Abeokuta. Here, pregnant women were educated on: the risk factors associated with congenital heart disease, preventive measures during pregnancy, and the importance of newborn screening shortly after delivery. By reaching expectant mothers, the team reinforced the importance of early awareness, even before a child is born.
On May 31, the campaign moved beyond hospital walls with a vibrant CHD Awareness Walk across key areas in Abeokuta. Joined by medical volunteers, nursing students, and pregnant women, the team walked through the city, making multiple stops along the way. At each stop, they shared fliers with easy-to-understand CHD information, engaged passersby in conversations about heart health, and delivered short health talks in public spaces and markets. Moving from one market to another, the team actively interacted with traders, shoppers, and community members, as they discussed the risk factors to avoid during pregnancy, the signs and symptoms of CHD in children, and the importance of early screening and diagnosis. Over 500 informational fliers were distributed, and more than 1,000 people were directly reached through group and one-on-one conversations.
Congenital heart disease remains one of the most common birth defects, yet early detection can significantly improve outcomes. This outreach highlights a simple but powerful truth that cannot be overemphasised: awareness saves lives. As we equipped families with knowledge and encouraged early screening, we are ensuring that more children are diagnosed early, treated on time, and given a better chance at healthy lives.
At CHDFNigeria, our commitment goes beyond awareness. We are dedicated to reaching communities, educating families, and advocating for better heart health outcomes for every child. We believe that every child deserves a healthy heart, and every parent deserves the knowledge to protect it.
