Early Detection Screening for Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) in the Junior High School Student Population in the Coastal Area of Batu Bara Regency, North Sumatra

Abstract

Background: Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is a leading contributor to pediatric morbidity globally. In remote coastal regions like Indonesia, the absence of routine screening often results in delayed diagnosis, leading to irreversible cardiovascular complications. Objective: This study aimed to implement a proactive CHD screening program for junior high school students in an underserved area as a vital preventive healthcare strategy. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at SMP Negeri 1 Tanjung Tiram, Batu Bara Regency, North Sumatra. A total of 190 students (aged 10–15 years) underwent screening involving anamnesis, physical examination, 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG), and portable echocardiography. Data were analyzed to determine the prevalence of undetected CHD. Results: The screening identified one positive case of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) in a previously asymptomatic student, yielding a prevalence of 0.5%. Statistical analysis showed that this finding is consistent with global epidemiological trends (p = 1.000). Despite 97.4% of participants being asymptomatic, the use of portable diagnostic tools proved essential for identifying structural anomalies. Conclusion: School-based screening utilizing portable echocardiography is a feasible strategy for early CHD detection in remote areas. Such initiatives are essential for bridging the diagnostic gap and reducing the incidence of late-onset complications.