Congenital Heart Disease Patients Can Live Beyond 35

Thanks to medical advancements, the majority of congenital heart diseases today are treatable and manageable. Once properly treated, patients can live a lifespan similar to that of the general population, with no significant limitations on their daily lives.

Medical Progress Increases Life Expectancy

Take Beijing as an example—life expectancy for men is now around 80 years, and for women it ranges between 83 and 85 years. This increase is largely due to improved healthcare and treatment options. In the past, especially before the 1950s and 1960s, survival rates for congenital heart defects were much lower. Today, however, conditions such as atrial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), tetralogy of Fallot, and patent ductus arteriosus can be effectively treated using either minimally invasive procedures or surgical interventions.

Effective Treatments Extend Lives

Modern medicine offers a wide range of treatment options, including catheter-based interventions and open-heart surgery. For instance, tetralogy of Fallot, a complex heart defect, can be corrected through surgical reconstruction of the heart's structure. These interventions not only improve quality of life but also significantly extend life expectancy.

Early Diagnosis and Treatment Are Crucial

Timely detection and early intervention are key to ensuring that individuals with congenital heart disease can lead normal, healthy lives. With proper care, their life expectancy is no different from that of someone without the condition. It is therefore essential to undergo regular heart screenings, especially during childhood, to catch any potential issues early on.