Contact Us: (405) 426-8309

Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) represents a group of heart defects that cause serious, life-threatening symptoms requiring intervention within the first days or first year of life. However, CCHD is often treatable, and with early detection and treatment babies affected can often lead longer, healthier lives. CCHD can encompass abnormalities in the rhythm of the heart, as well as a wide array of structural heart problems.

These problems can range from mild (never requiring cardiac surgery) to severe (requiring multiple different stages of open heart surgeries). CCHD can involve abnormal or absent chambers, holes in the heart, abnormal connections in the heart, and abnormalities in the function or squeeze of the heart. Most congenital heart conditions affect individuals from childhood through adulthood.

Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) screening has been recommended nationally by the Secretary for Health and Human Services and pulse oximetry screening for CCHD is endorsed by the American Heart Association, American Academy of Pediatrics and American College of Cardiology. 

Mailing Address:
Oklahoma State Department of Health
Newborn Screening Program
123 Robert S. Kerr Ave., Suite 1702
Oklahoma City, OK 73102-6406

Phone: (405) 426-8309
Fax: (405) 900-7554
E-Mail: newbornscreen@health.ok.gov