Cardiovascular diseases, regardless of their congenital or acquired origin, are very disabling and often fatal when left untreated. In Cameroon, they are among the leading causes of death in children and young adults. In many cases, cardiac surgery is the only option although local access to such therapy remains exceptional due to insufficient number of cardiovascular specialists, lack of materials and financial resources.
In line with its objectives, Heart of Cameroon Foundation (HCF), with the support of partners has contributed to the surgical treatment of seven patients (ages: 19 months – 51 years) affected by severe congenital and acquired heart diseases. The surgeries were performed between September and November 2022 at the Yaoundé General Hospital and were successfully carried out by a team of Cameroonian specialists.
Considering the encouraging outcomes from this initial experience by a local team, HCF intends, with the contribution of partners and volunteers, to increase access to cardiac care to a major number of patients awaiting for surgical treatment in the country from the year 2023.
