Small changes can lead to big payoffs for heart health, Mayo Clinic experts say

Real improvements for patient heart health can start when primary care physicians encourage patients to embrace small, sustainable lifestyle changes, said two physician authors of a new book on cardio care.

Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D., M.S., and Kyla M. Lara-Breitinger, M.D., M.S., co-edited the “Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy, Happy Heart,” alongside the late Amir Lerman, M.D., a pioneering researcher whose work helped establish how the inner lining of arteries functions and its role in cardiovascular health. More than 30 contributors from across Mayo Clinic's campuses — and with practical experience treating patients — collaborated on the volume.

Lopez-Jimenez and Lara-Breitinger spoke with Medical Economics about the latest research on heart health and the role of primary care as a front line in the battle against cardiovascular disease. They discussed body mass index as a health measure, home blood pressure monitoring, the growing role of GLP-1 medications in obesity treatment, and how joy can be a tool in heart disease prevention.

For a sample of the book, check out this excerpt: ‘What are my goals?’ — Getting specific with patients for better heart health

The book is available through Mayo Clinic Press. Proceeds of book sales support the Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular Research Department.