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Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect in China. Substantial investments have led to a comprehensive network of prenatal and neonatal screening, diagnosis, and treatment services. CHD outcomes are generally favourable, but there is a need to establish cohesive paediatric cardiology teams, increase collaboration between hospitals, improve access to treatment, and develop a comprehensive nationwide database. As survival continues to improve, the growing population of individuals with CHD and complex medical needs means that an integrated management model should be created to enhance postoperative follow-up and rehabilitation, with a focus on improving neurodevelopmental outcomes, psychosocial health, and physical activity. This three-paper Series describes the disease burden in China, screening and diagnosis strategies, treatment options, and follow-up care and challenges associated with CHD throughout the life course, and calls for concerted efforts to develop an actionable, lifelong framework of CHD care that is accessible and affordable for all patients.
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