What Are the Causes of Heart Disease in Childhood?

Heart disease is fairly uncommon in childhood. The two types of heart disease in children are congenital and acquired. Congenital heart disease is present at birth, while acquired heart disease develops during childhood.

Congenital Heart Disease

• Congenital heart disease is the most common type of heart disease in children. It refers to a birth defect which is characterized by a problem with the heart's structure and function. Although congenital heart disease exists at birth, symptoms may not be obvious immediately.

Significance

• According to the American Heart Association, about 36,000 children are born with congenital heart disease annually. This is about nine out of every 1,000 children.

Cause

• No known cause has been identified for most congenital heart disease. In a small number of cases, heart defects have a genetic link or may be traced back to medications taken by the mother while pregnant.

Types of Acquired Heart Disease

• Acquired heart disease is more common in adults than children. Types of heart disease acquired in childhood include Kawasaki disease and rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is caused by bacteria. The cause of Kawasaki disease is unknown.

Heart Failure

• Heart failure can occur in children and adolescents. Causes include congenital heart defects or infection from a virus.