Each year, more people die of heart attacks than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the African American population seems hardest hit. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of African American deaths in the U.S. - accounting for one in five deaths.
“There’s a genetic component (to cardiac issues for African Americans),” David Spurlock, MD, a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon at AdventHealth's Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, said in a recent discussion with Orange TV. “Africans Americans are also at high risk of having diabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure, but also not exercising enough and poor diet can lead to cardiovascular disease.”
Dr. Spurlock believes small changes can make a big difference in cardiac health.
“Not smoking and changing the diet,” said Dr. Spurlock. “If anybody’s like me, I start with the protein and the carbs and if there’s any space left on the plate, then I add some vegetables. Thinking the opposite way – building your plate from the vegetables out.”
Dr. Spurlock discusses how the screening process works for cardiac issues, what signs to look for when someone’s having heart failure and why having a primary care physician is so important for optimal heart health in this interview.
12 items. To interact with these items, press Control-Option-Shift-Right Arrow. These items are in a slider. To advance slider forward, press Shift-Command-Right Arrow. To advance slider backward, press Shift-Command-Left Arrow.
News
Final steel beam marks key step in AdventHealth Daytona Beach expansion
Local leaders, officials, and construction workers gathered today to commemorate a major milestone in the expansion underway at AdventHealth Daytona Beach: placing the final steel beam.
News
Orthopedic surgeon returns to AdventHealth
Dr. Jeffrey Keen, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstruction, orthopedic surgery, robotic-assisted surgery, and sports medicine, has returned to AdventHealth Medical...
News
Hundreds of transplant patients and their families reunite with AdventHealth Transplant Institute caregivers
In recognition of National Donate Life Month, nearly 300 transplant patients and their families enjoyed AdventHealth’s 2025 transplant reunion.
News
Ashley and Jimmy celebrate life together after kidney donation
According to the National Kidney Foundation, more than 101,000 people are currently on the organ transplant list in need of a new kidney. However, only about 17,000 transplants happen each year —...
Press Release
More than 9,400 pounds of food distributed through new AdventHealth, United Way of Central Florida partnership
News
David Banks named president/CEO for AdventHealth
The AdventHealth Board of Directors has appointed David Banks as the organization’s new president/CEO, effective immediately.
News
Little girl’s organ donation could potentially save thousands, inspire even more
In life, Sophie Davis touched dozens of hearts. In passing, one of her organs could possibly save thousands of lives.
Press Release
AdventHealth Heart of Florida, Northeast Polk Chamber celebrate new addition to long-standing partnership
News
Spring into action: Tips to prevent back pain while enjoying your favorite springtime activities
As the days get longer and the weather warms up, people are eager to get back to their favorite outdoor spring activities and sports. This transition from winter to spring often leads to an increased...
News
Former AdventHealth Parker patient now supporting other patients after 64-day stay
Marie Williams remembers being admitted to AdventHealth Parker on September 1, 2023, for colon resection surgery, but after that, things get hazy.
News
Kristi Baker named senior executive officer of AdventHealth for Children
AdventHealth for Children is a nationally recognized children’s hospital and comprehensive care network caring for nearly 200,000 children annually.
Media Coverage
AdventHealth Ocala set to welcome family medicine residents
Eight new physicians are joining AdventHealth Ocala’s team to take their next steps to become fully licensed, board-certified family physicians.