Understanding Heart Health: Insights from Dr. John M. Pargulski of Mahaska Health

The emergency room staff at Mahaska Health helps a patient suffering from a heart attack. (file photo)

As World Heart Day approaches on September 29, it’s essential to focus on cardiovascular health. Despite years of public health campaigns, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death worldwide. Dr. John M. Pargulski, a cardiologist from Mahaska Health, recently spoke with Oskaloosa News, offering insight into the challenges of heart disease prevention, the impact of socioeconomic factors, and the future of cardiac care.

Prevention and Awareness

CVDs continue to be the world’s top cause of death, and Dr. Pargulski believes that one of the main issues in prevention efforts is a lack of direct communication. “I do not think we’re direct enough with our warnings,” he stated, emphasizing that heart disease affects a large portion of the population. “The general population, about 1 in 4 people will die due to cardiovascular disease. In the diabetic population it is almost 70%.”
Addressing misconceptions about heart health is also crucial. Dr. Pargulski pointed out that many believe heart disease only impacts people with known risk factors. “You have to have risk, or a family member who has had heart disease to put yourself at risk for coronary artery disease,” he said, highlighting this as a common misconception. He stressed that “even those at low risk can develop CAD.”

Socioeconomic Factors and Their Impact

Cardiovascular diseases disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries. Dr. Pargulski emphasized how socioeconomic factors play a significant role in the prevention and treatment of CVD. “The socioeconomically disadvantaged groups have a greater exposure to cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking, increasing incidence of atherosclerotic risk factors (eg, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia and hypertension), poor working and living conditions, stress, lower rates of formal education, and reduced access to health care and health education,” he explained.
When it comes to lifestyle-related risks such as poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise, Dr. Pargulski acknowledged that differences exist between urban and rural populations. He noted that “there have been some smaller retrospective studies that have looked at urban versus rural (oftentimes regional) lifestyle behaviors.” However, it’s difficult to pinpoint the reasons for disparities between these groups. “A comprehensive approach to improve lifestyle behaviors, especially in those with more than one high-risk lifestyle behavior, is needed, regardless of residential area,” he concluded.

Innovations and the Future of Cardiac Care

The landscape of cardiovascular care continues to evolve, with promising innovations emerging. Dr. Pargulski noted that, “every year, researchers gain a deeper understanding of the pathways that lead to cardiovascular disease and how to better prevent and treat heart disease and stroke.” However, access remains a significant hurdle. “Not all providers can remain up to date with latest innovation on all specialties. Access to cardiology care is likely the best way of spreading that information,” he explained.

Wearable health technology and AI-driven diagnostics are expected to play a crucial role in reshaping heart disease prevention and treatment. “The potential for earlier detection of, common threatening rhythms such as atrial fibrillation,” Dr. Pargulski said, will improve heart care, alongside “the accurate management of chronic diseases such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, mental health.” He also emphasized how these advancements can improve patient involvement in their own health: “Better patient engagement/awareness in their own healthcare.”

Conclusion
As we approach World Heart Day, Dr. Pargulski’s insights underscore the challenges of reducing the global burden of cardiovascular diseases. While socioeconomic factors and common misconceptions about heart health remain obstacles, innovations in treatment and technology offer hope. By improving access to healthcare and making better use of technology, there is potential for earlier detection, more effective management, and a healthier future for all.