Fewer Swedish babies are dying from congenital heart defects than ever before. Since the year 2000, deaths among children under five have dropped from 39 to just seven in 2024, according to data compiled by the Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation using national health statistics. A major reason for this improvement is earlier detection: about half of all heart defects are now found during pregnancy through routine ultrasound scans. When heart problems are spotted, doctors can prepare right away. "It’s extremely important because it allows immediate diagnosis and treatment at delivery," says Kristina Sparreljung, Secretary General of the Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation. Another key factor is that the most complex surgeries are now centralized in just two specialized units, in Lund and Gothenburg. Concentrating expert care there has led to better surgical methods and higher survival rates. Today, nearly 40,000 children and young adults in Sweden live with a congenital heart defect. Most—97%—reach adulthood, up from 85% in 1980. Still, adults with these conditions face higher risks of other heart and vascular diseases earlier in life. "We need much more research to understand why this happens and how to prevent it," Sparreljung adds. Common defects include holes between heart chambers or narrowing in heart valves and major arteries. Symptoms can include bluish lips, breathing difficulties, fatigue, or unusual heart sounds.
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