Adults with congenital heart disease – Facing morbidities and uncertain early mortality

In the current era, most individuals born with congenital heart disease will reach adulthood. There are now more adults than children living with congenital heart disease in developed countries, and the population continues to expand. Although the life-saving accomplishments achieved in pediatric cardiology are to be extolled, longer-term sequelae also warrant close attention. Adults with moderate or complex disease continue to face cardiac and noncardiac comorbidities as well as a shorted life expectancy. This article begins with a summary of common comorbidities and patterns of mortality faced by adults with congenital heart disease. This is followed by an overview of the broader impact of these issues on the lives of patients, as well as a call for interdisciplinary and comprehensive care to optimize patient outcomes.