On World Heart Day, Hot Springs cardiologist urges residents to take charge of heart health
HOT SPRINGS, Ark., Sept. 29, 2025 — As the world marks World Heart Day today, the American Heart Association–Central Arkansas and Dr. Srinivas Vengala, an interventional cardiologist with CHI St. Vincent Heart Clinic, are urging residents of Garland County to take proactive steps to protect their heart health.
“Heart disease is hitting Arkansas hard, and we’re seeing it earlier and more often,” said Vengala, an interventional cardiologist with CHI St. Vincent Heart Clinic and co-chair of the 2026 Hot Springs Heart Ball. “But the good news is that many of these outcomes are preventable.”
Arkansas continues to rank among the states with the highest heart disease death rates, with contributing factors including elevated rates of hypertension, diabetes, obesity and smoking, he said. In Garland County, these issues are compounded by limited access to preventive care and delayed treatment.
“Many residents don’t seek help until symptoms are advanced,” Vengala said. “We need to improve education and access so people can take action earlier.”
Vengala noted that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death both locally and nationally, and troubling trends are emerging among younger patients.
“Younger people are being diagnosed with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and even early signs of heart disease,” he said. “The awareness is growing, which is encouraging — but we need to turn that awareness into consistent action.”
The American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 offers a science-based roadmap for better heart health, including guidance on nutrition, physical activity, tobacco cessation, sleep, blood pressure, weight, cholesterol and blood sugar.
“The good news is that most heart diseases are preventable,” Vengala said. “It’s not about perfection — it’s about small, consistent choices that add up to a stronger heart.”
He emphasized the importance of regular screenings, comparing them to routine car maintenance.
“You don’t wait until the engine seizes up — you check it regularly,” he said. “High blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes often have no symptoms, but they silently damage the heart. Screenings are a safety net that can prevent life-threatening emergencies.”
On World Heart Day, Vengala encourages residents to take one step toward better heart health — whether it’s going for a walk, preparing a healthy meal or scheduling a checkup.
“Your heart is in your hands,” he said. “It beats over 100,000 times a day for you. The best gift you can give back is care through healthy habits.”
He also called on schools, businesses and community organizations to play a role in supporting heart health.
“Heart health isn’t just an individual responsibility — it takes a village,” Vengala said. “When communities work together, we can truly reduce the burden of heart disease.”
The upcoming Hot Springs Heart Ball, set for Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at the Hot Springs Convention Center, will bring together survivors, healthcare leaders and advocates to raise funds for research, education and outreach across Central Arkansas. Co-chaired by Vengala and his wife, Sapna Vengala, the event will feature inspiring stories, live entertainment and opportunities to support the mission of the American Heart Association.
Residents are encouraged to visit heart.org/lifes8 to learn more and begin their journey toward better heart health.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than 100 years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook or X by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
