Thursday, March 20, 2025
February is American Heart Month, and Thierry Duchatellier, a seasoned cardiologist at Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre with 28 years of experience in general and preventive cardiology, highlighted the importance of heart health and how to take it seriously.
Duchatellier has dedicated much of his career to improving heart health in the local community. Serving as the section chief of cardiology at Mercy Hospital for over two decades, he has seen firsthand how crucial early detection and preventive measures are in managing heart disease.
Heart testing through the coronary calcium score test
One of the most significant developments in preventive cardiology, according to Duchatellier, is the use of the coronary calcium score test, which has gained traction in recent years. This test provides valuable insight into the presence of coronary artery disease by measuring the buildup of calcium in the arteries, a key indicator of potential heart problems.
“Recent trials (have) shown the effectiveness of the tests and the availability of the tests being more prominent in the radiology, cardiology world…But more importantly is that the trials have shown its usefulness, and therefore the insurance companies have started approving it more and more,” he said. “It’s effective, it’s low cost and it gives great information to the physician, and more importantly, and allows the physician to convey the result to the patient and come up with a plan as to how to manage their issue.”
Duchatellier said that the coronary calcium score is a vital tool in risk assessment, especially for patients aged 40 and older or with low to moderate risk factors but without symptoms of heart disease. A score of zero, he explained, is “ideal” because it indicates no plaque buildup and a low risk of heart events. Scores above zero — which can go up into the 300s or 400s for people with very high buildup and risk — provide doctors with crucial information that can influence treatment plans.
While the coronary calcium score is important in preventive cardiology, Duchatellier emphasized that it is not a standalone test for patients already diagnosed with heart disease. In such cases, additional testing is required to assess the extent of artery blockages more accurately.
A holistic approach to heart health
Duchatellier said that maintaining a healthy heart is all about balance. He advocates for a balanced diet, regular physical activity and adequate sleep to complement medical treatments. He warns against extreme diets, such as high-protein, low-carb diets, which, while effective for weight loss, can increase cholesterol and promote inflammation. Instead, he encourages a diet rich in all the food groups to improve heart health.
“All the food groups should be on the table with moderation,” he said, “and have frequent re-evaluation by your physician to see if there is an impact on your blood tests.”
Duchatellier explained the importance of regular exercise, specifically “low-impact physical activity” like walking or cycling. It can help reduce cholesterol, improve blood pressure and prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.
Sleep hygiene is another critical aspect of heart health, Duchatellier said. He highlighted studies showing that heart attacks can be caused by rising cortisol levels and increased blood pressure after inadequate sleep. He advises patients to prioritize seven to eight hours of sleep each night to support overall cardiovascular health.
Regular check-ups are key to prevention
Above all, Duchatellier stressed that “preventing is better than treating.” He encourages individuals, particularly those over 40, to get regular checkups and screenings, even if they feel healthy. Early detection of risk factors like high cholesterol, family history of heart disease or diabetes can help prevent heart problems before they become severe.
Heart disease and other heart problems can often be prevented or better managed through lifestyle changes, early detection and a collaborative approach between patients and their healthcare providers. Through regular checkups, maintaining a balanced diet, staying active and getting sufficient amounts of sleep, people can reduce the risk of future cardiovascular harm.
