Every year, nearly 1 in 500 babies are born with pulmonary hypertension, a potentially fatal heart and lung disease. Now, the first ever guidelines for diagnosis and treatment have been published in the journal Circulation.

The new guidelines are the result of collaboration between the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Thoracic Society (ATS) and were created by an interdisciplinary team of 27 physicians, based on data from more than 600 studies.

The new guidelines aim to provide a foundation for the best possible care in cases of pediatric pulmonary hypertension, including:

  • Classifying the types of pulmonary hypertension
  • Proven and emerging medical and surgical therapies
  • Appropriate and approved treatments and dosages
  • Optimal comprehensive care of the patient, including advice on supportive care, social aspects of care and practical advice on exercise and travel restrictions
  • Advice on the role of pulmonary hypertension centers offering specialized treatment.