Willemstad, November 26th – Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) played an important role at the International Medical Conference Curaçao (IMCC), where Pediatric Cardiologist Dr. Shirley Lo-A-Njoe presented essential insights on congenital heart disease and the rising impact of childhood obesity on their heart health.
In her presentation, Dr. Lo-A-Njoe emphasized that congenital anomalies affect about three percent of all children, with one-third involving the heart. Congenital heart disease remains a major cause of mortality in children under five, underscoring the need for early detection, sustained guidance, and coordinated family support. Curaçao’s growing scientific dataset currently shows a prevalence of 2.5 percent, further highlighting the importance of local monitoring and research.
A significant part of the discussion focused on childhood obesity, which is increasingly visible in Curaçao and disproportionately affects children with congenital heart disease. Many of these children require higher caloric intake while facing activity restrictions, creating a cycle that heightens their cardiovascular risks.
CMC has taken a proactive leadership role in improving outcomes for this group. Since 2019, the hospital has referred children with congenital heart disease to a structured rehabilitation trajectory carried out in collaboration with the rehabilitation center led by Jacqueline Hol. Hol is the founder of Rafana, a medical exercise center. This partnership supports children aged four to seventeen, beginning with a full evaluation by CMC’s pediatric team before the rehabilitation process continues with Hol’s specialized multidisciplinary program. Together, CMC and the rehabilitation center focus on movement, healthy habits, and long-term lifestyle guidance. Mrs. Hol emphasized that the most meaningful progress occurs when families are actively involved.
Pediatric specialists of CMC also extend their commitment to disease management through the Fit Kids program, which promotes healthy lifestyles for children without cardiac conditions through guided walking sessions, swimming activities, and health education.
During his opening remarks at the conference, the Minister of Health underscored the national impact of CMC’s work. He highlighted the hospital’s transformation into a modern medical center with more than 25 specializations, and its ongoing pursuit of Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. He also praised CMC’s dedication to family-centered care as a cornerstone of Curaçao’s healthcare future.
Dr. Lo-A-Njoe concluded with a clear message: collaboration within families, within Curaçao’s healthcare network, and across regional partners is essential for improving outcomes for children with congenital heart disease.
CMC remains committed to advancing pediatric cardiac care, strengthening rehabilitation pathways, and supporting Curaçao’s children and families with high-quality, compassionate care.
