Heart Disease Prevention Starts Here
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and many risk factors are manageable.
At Virginia Cardiovascular Specialists (VCS), our Preventive Cardiology and Wellness service focuses on identifying risk early and partnering with you to reduce your chances of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Prevention means acting before symptoms appear, and building a long-term plan tailored to you. And, VCS has proven its commitment to prevention by being an early adopter of technology that has saved countless lives over the last several years.
“We believe we have improved the process to identify cardiovascular disease. As a result of our screenings, many patients will realize benefits five to ten years from now. They will have received treatment early on, made ‘heart friendly’ changes in their lifestyles, and their odds of cardiovascular disease will have decreased significantly.” – Dr. Darryn L. Appleton MD, FACC
What Is Preventive Cardiology?
Preventive cardiology is specialized care focused on lowering your risk of developing heart disease through early identification, evidence-based treatment, and personalized guidance
At VCS, we evaluate and manage:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes and metabolic risk
- Family history of heart disease
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking, inactivity, and nutrition
National cardiology guidelines emphasize early risk assessment and proactive management to prevent serious cardiovascular events.
What Are the Risk Factors for Heart Disease?
Heart disease risk is influenced by both controllable and uncontrollable factors.
Modifiable risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Tobacco use
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Poor diet
Non-modifiable risk factors include:
- Age
- Sex (men are typically at higher risk earlier in life; women’s risk increases after menopause)
- Race and ethnicity (African Americans have higher rates of hypertension and heart disease)
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
Understanding your full risk profile allows for more personalized, proactive care.
Why Prevention Matters for Women
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women.
Women may experience different or more subtle symptoms than men, and life stages—including pregnancy and menopause—can increase long-term cardiovascular risk. Listening carefully to symptoms and recognizing these differences are essential to providing effective, individualized care.
Managing High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
High blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol are two of the most significant contributors to heart disease.
At VCS, prevention may include:
- Ongoing monitoring
- Medication when appropriate
- Lifestyle counseling
- Coordination with your primary care provider
Lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels significantly reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. Our physicians work closely with you to set achievable goals and adjust treatment as needed.
Ongoing Monitoring with HealthSnap
For eligible patients managing hypertension, VCS offers remote monitoring through HealthSnap.
This service allows patients to:
- Measure blood pressure at home
- Share readings securely with their care team
- Identify trends between visits
Self-measured blood pressure monitoring, combined with clinical oversight, has been shown to improve blood pressure control and long-term consistency with treatment plans.
A Collaborative Approach
Preventive cardiology works best through a partnership between the patient, cardiologist, and primary care provider.
At VCS, we believe prevention is most effective when care is coordinated, communication is clear, and patients feel heard. Our goal is to reduce risk, improve long-term heart health, and support sustainable changes that fit your life.
Take the Next Step
If you have risk factors for heart disease or want to better understand your cardiovascular health, schedule an appointment with Virginia Cardiovascular Specialists.
Protecting your heart starts today.