Press release
Congenital heart disease: continuity of care, from childhood to adulthood, is a vital necessity for patients
Brussels, 22 September 2025 – On the occasion of the launch, by the Belgian Heart League, of a national campaign to boost awareness of congenital heart disease, as a League partner the Brussels University Hospital (H.U.B) wishes to stress the crucial importance of the transition from paediatric to adult care. Specialised and continuous medical care is essential to guarantee the health and quality of life of patients in the long term.
Congenital heart disease covers a range of heart malformations present at birth. Every year approximately 1 child in 100 is born with a congenital heart disease in Belgium, making more than 1,000 new cases a year. Thanks to medical progress, most of these children now live into adulthood. A success that brings new challenges: It is essential to avoid any interruption in medical monitoring during the transition to adulthood (generally around the age of 16 or 18) and to ensure that the monitoring is adapted to adults.
“ The Department of Cardiology has comprehensive expertise that enables us to accompany the patient and patient’s family, from the prenatal period through to adulthood, thanks to integrated and multidisciplinary care,” explains Professor Antoine Bondue, Head of the H.U.B Department of Cardiology and President of the Belgian Heart League’s Scientific Committee.
The H.U.B offers a coordinated care pathway bringing together paediatric and adult cardiologists, surgeons, geneticists, psychologists, physiotherapists and specialised coordinating nurses. This global approach ensures cutting edge medical monitoring as well as psychological and social support for patients and their loved ones.
“The transition from paediatric cardiology to adult cardiology is a key moment in the life of patients with congenital heart disease. Without adapted monitoring the risk of complications or a late diagnosis of cardiovascular disease increases considerably in adulthood,” stresses Dr. Hugues Dessy, Head of the Paediatric Cardiology Department at the Queen Fabiola Children’s University Hospital (HUDERF).
A successful transition to adult care is not exclusively a medical issue. It also enables young people to continue their studies, embark on a career and pursue their personal projects in complete safety.
“With continuous specialised care, most patients with congenital heart disease can pursue an active and rewarding life,” adds Dr. Marielle Morissens, cardiologist specialising in congenital heart disease in adulthood.
Contact
Louis Dijon
Marine Lhomel