[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Aortic Stenosis (AS), a narrowing of the aortic valve that restricts blood flow, is the one of the most common and serious heart valve disease problems in developed countries. It is an under-recognised phenomenon and a challenging condition to diagnose as it can be silent for a long period of time.
Historically rheumatic disease and congenital conditions were common causes of AS, however with increased longevity, the most common cause of AS today is degenerative calcification of the aortic valve. This causes subtle symptoms such as shortness of breath and the reduced ability for normal activities which many patients and clinicians dismiss as part of the normal aging process or being “out of shape”.
This month HeartKids, the only national charity dedicated to supporting children, teens and adults affected by congenital heart disease all across Australia celebrates Show Your Heart for Little Hearts. Edwards Lifesciences Foundation is a proud supporter of HeartKids. Congenital heart disease is the most common congenital disorder in newborns. The birth rate prevalence of congenital heart disease is understood to be approximately 8 – 10 cases per 1,000 live births.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
