SHREVEPORT, La. – As February marks American Heart Month, CHRISTUS Health is urging residents to prioritize cardiovascular wellness through prevention, early detection, and consistent healthy habits.
For Susan Hall, a 71-year-old nurse, the message is personal. Hall was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse decades ago and, in 2023, began experiencing worsening fatigue and shortness of breath despite significant weight loss. Her cardiologist found that her aortic valve had narrowed to about half its normal size due to abnormal tissue growth.
Dr. John Evans, cardiovascular surgeon at CHRISTUS Heart and Vascular Institute in Shreveport, determined Hall had a 50 percent chance of surviving two years without surgery. He performed an aortic valve replacement, and following three months of cardiac rehabilitation, Hall returned to an active lifestyle that included travel and hiking.
“Caring for my heart has become a top priority in my life and my family life,” Hall said. “It’s a daily reminder to be thankful, remain active and pay close attention to my health.”
Her advocacy extended to her family, leading her daughter and son to undergo heart screenings. Her son was later diagnosed with a heart murmur.
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease remains the leading cause of death among adults in the United States, accounting for approximately 916,000 deaths annually. The condition includes coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders, congestive heart failure, and congenital heart defects.
Evans emphasized that preventive care is key to reducing the risk of heart disease. “Maintaining an active lifestyle, eating a heart-healthy diet, keeping blood pressure and cholesterol under control and scheduling regular visits with a primary care provider may seem simple, but these steps can significantly improve heart health,” he said.
Dr. Timothy Danish, also a cardiovascular surgeon at CHRISTUS Heart and Vascular Institute, added that exercise can be approachable for most people. “Regular exercise can be as simple as incorporating daily movement into your routine,” he said. “Thirty minutes a day can significantly reduce heart disease risk, and when practiced consistently, these small habits help protect the heart over time.”
CHRISTUS Health encourages regular checkups to monitor risk factors and guide early intervention when needed. More information and heart screening details are available on the CHRISTUS Health website.