Heart screening in Lae city this week has found many children with heart problems, with doctors warning that young patients in PNG often arrive at hospital too late. Department of Health paediatrician, Dr Cornelia Kilalang, said many families don’t realize how common childhood heart disease is. Some cases are present from birth, while others develop after simple throat infections turn into rheumatic heart disease. “Heart surgery is one of the most difficult operations,” she said. “We stop the heart and lungs and use a machine to keep the patient alive. But too many children come too late. The key is early recognition.” Parents are being asked to watch for warning signs. These include babies who sweat while feeding, children who are underweight, persistent coughs, or fast breathing. In older children, painful joints, fevers or shortness of breath should raise concern. At Angau Hospital, Dr Winnie Sadua said the checks were important for Morobe. The Operation Open Heart Foundation runs the program with support from partners. They cover family travel and bring in overseas surgeons for difficult cases. Foundation spokesperson Jane Huka said, “These partnerships are making it possible for children across PNG to access life-saving treatment.”