Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a heart attack, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2024),. During a recent appearance on Morning Line with host Nick Beres, Dr. José E. Rodríguez, professor and chair of Family & Community Medicine at Meharry Medical College, emphasized the importance of prevention, awareness, and equity as February marks American Heart Month.
Dr. Rodríguez, who is also a Family Medicine physician with Meharry Medical Group, highlighted how social factors influence cardiovascular health. Disparities in heart disease rates among racial and ethnic groups are not driven by biology but by social determinants such as stress, access to care, and structural inequities. For example, higher rates of heart disease in Black communities are linked to systemic stressors, while lower rates in Latino populations are largely due to younger average age demographics rather than genetic differences.
Genetics can still play a role in certain cases, Dr. Rodriguez added, pointing to conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia, which causes elevated cholesterol levels and increases cardiovascular risk. Ultimately, he explained, heart disease is driven by cholesterol buildup in arteries throughout the body, not just the heart, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes when vessels narrow or become blocked.
According to the Tennessee Department of Health, heart disease is the #1 cause of death in Tennessee, accounting for 25% of all deaths and Tennessee has one of the highest heart attack rates in the U.S. In 2021, there were 9306 hospitalizations due to heart attacks in Tennessee.
Dr. Rodríguez underscored the critical role of primary care physicians in prevention. Because family doctors care for patients across their lifespan, they can detect changes early, monitor blood pressure and cholesterol, and guide patients toward healthier habits. Routine screenings, especially blood pressure checks, are among the most effective tools for identifying risk. High blood pressure is widespread but highly treatable, whether through medication, lifestyle changes, or regular physical activity.
Exercise, he said, is especially powerful for heart health. Although heart rate rises during activity, consistent exercise lowers resting heart rate and blood pressure over time, ultimately reducing strain on the cardiovascular system.
Full Interview: https://www.newschannel5.com/plus/morningline/preventing-heart-disease
Recognizing warning signs is equally important. Shortness of breath at rest, chest tightness, or unexplained discomfort can signal a serious problem. Dr. Rodríguez cautioned that heart attack symptoms don’t always present as classic chest pain. Some people, particularly women and individuals with diabetes, may experience symptoms such as back pain, fatigue, or sensations resembling anxiety. Because it can be difficult to distinguish between heartburn and cardiac symptoms, he encourages anyone with concerning signs to seek medical evaluation promptly.
Dr. Rodríguez shared that his inspiration began while serving as a missionary in Paraguay, when he witnessed a companion undergo emergency surgery for appendicitis. Seeing the removed appendix sparked his curiosity and solidified his decision to become a physician.
He later chose to join Meharry Medical College because of its mission to serve communities that have historically faced barriers to care. Today, he leads a department that includes family medicine, psychiatry services for patients struggling with addiction, and sports medicine programs – all focused on delivering high-quality care to those who need it most.
As American Heart Month continues, Dr. Rodríguez’s message is clear: prevention, education, and equitable access to care are key to reducing heart disease and helping communities live longer, healthier lives.
To schedule an appointment with Meharry Medical Group’s Family and Community Medicine Office, visit meharry.edu/mmg.
- Meharry Medical Group
- 1818 Albion St., Nashville, TN 37208
- Appointment: 615-327-6348
- Meharry Family Medicine at Skyline
- 3443 Dickerson Pike, STE 530 Nashville, TN 37207
- Appointments: 615.860.7511
