Grant: DRA : Canada Graduate Research Scholarship - Doctoral Program (CGRS D)

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a defect in the structure of the heart or great blood vessels and is the most common birth defect. Thanks to medical advances, most children with CHD now survive into adulthood. Today, about 257,000 Canadians are living with CHD, and this number continues to grow every year. Research shows that people with CHD often have changes in the brain, such as small strokes or tiny bleeds, that can affect how the brain develops and make connections. These changes may lead to challenges with learning, memory, or problem-solving. Adolescence (age 9-17) and early adulthood (age 18-25) are especially important periods, during which the brain reorganizes itself to support higher-level thinking. Yet, we still know little about how brain changes in CHD affect long-term brain health and daily life. In this study, we are following 40 adolescents and 40 young adults with CHD, who have had advanced brain scans and completed tests of memory, problem-solving, movement, and well-being. We aim to (1) track brain injuries over time, (2) study changes in brain structure and connections, and (3) understand how these relate to thinking, learning, and quality of life. By combining brain imaging with cognitive testing, we will see how brain health changes over time and how it relates to daily functioning. We are currently enrolling participants and completing follow-up visits, and we expect to have results ready to look at by July 2026. Although Canadians with CHD are living longer, many face hidden risks to brain health that affect school, work, and everyday life. By focusing on adolescence and early adulthood, a critical time for both brain development and transition from pediatric to adult care, this research will guide better screening, education, and health policies. The findings may also lead to new ways to prevent or reduce these challenges, helping people with CHD reach their full potential.