In Northeast Arkansas, heart disease is a serious concern, making awareness crucial for our community. Each February, we observe American Heart Month, an opportunity to reflect on heart health and what it means for us.
Dr. Max Arroyo, a cardiologist at St. Bernards Heart and Vascular, sheds light on heart disease in our region. Arkansas has the fourth-highest rate of cardiovascular disease deaths in the U.S., with one in eight adults diagnosed. However, many cases may go unnoticed.
Why American Heart Month Matters
Dr. Arroyo emphasizes that this month sparks vital conversations about health. It’s a time to educate ourselves and take proactive steps to improve heart health before issues arise.
Who Should See a Cardiologist?
If you have a family history of heart disease or conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol, you should consider visiting a cardiologist. Pay attention to signs such as chest pain or unusual breathlessness. If you’re over 40, have risk factors, and feel healthy, a baseline evaluation can prevent emergencies down the road.
Understanding Your Heart Health
To get a clearer picture of your heart health, start with basic tests. A lipid panel evaluates your cholesterol levels, while blood pressure readings should be below 120/80. St. Bernards provides advanced tests like EKGs and Calcium Scoring to detect plaque buildup in arteries. Stress tests and echocardiograms further assess heart performance.
Services at St. Bernards
St. Bernards Heart & Vascular offers a wide range of services, from non-invasive imaging to complex surgeries. They focus on issues from heart rhythm to valve repairs. Their Heart Failure Clinic and Cardiac Rehabilitation program help patients manage ongoing conditions effectively.
Taking Action for Heart Health
Simple lifestyle changes can lead to significant improvements. Nearly half of Arkansas adults have high blood pressure, often due to diet and inactivity. Reducing salt, increasing daily activity, and scheduling regular checkups are great first steps.
Community Involvement
This year, St. Bernards invites everyone to participate in Heart Day, offering free screenings and expert advice on heart health.
- When: Thursday, February 12, 2026
- Time: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Where: St. Bernards Auditorium, 505 East Washington Avenue, Jonesboro, AR 72401
The event features carotid artery ultrasounds, blood pressure checks, and heart-healthy education.
Improving heart health is a community effort. For expert information on cardiovascular services, you can visit St. Bernards Heart & Vascular.
By taking small steps together, we can tackle heart disease and build a healthier future for our community.
