World Heart Report 2026

The 2026 World Heart Report comprehensively summarizes current knowledge about congenital heart defects (CHDs) around the world. We encourage you to read the original report, which is linked below. Here are some of the key points:

• every year, between 2.3 million and 2.5 million babies are born with heart defects

• about 40% of people with heart defects live in low- or middle-income countries

• around the world, more babies are surviving with heart defects, but babies from wealthier countries are much more likely to survive than babies from poorer countries

• 30-50% of children with heart defects are diagnosed with developmental or psychological challenges

• people with heart defects can face social stigma or isolation, especially in low and middle income countries

• genetic differences can now explain 40% of congenital heart defects

• environmental risk factors, such as a mother's illness or exposure to toxic materials, explain about 2% of congenital heart defects

• women with heart defects can face risks with pregnancy and menopause, and professionals rarely offer them enough education and support to manage these risks

1. Within each country, build an affordable healthcare system for people with congenital heart defects that can offer services on an ongoing basis, rather than just in response to a crisis.

2. Train more clinicians to provide specialized service to people with congenital heart defects.

3. Do a better job of diagnosing and tracking congenital heart defects, and measuring rates of congenital heart defects within and across countries.

4. Develop policies and write standards aimed at increasing access to CHD care, reducing mortality, and improving outcomes.

5. Elevate the voices and perspectives of people living with heart defects and their families, and follow their lead in making decisions about policies and priorities.

6. Endorse and advocate for the 2027 WHA Resolution on Child-Onset Heart Disease.