Heart Health Month: A Conversation with Dr. Chronos and Michelle Lamm
By Nicolas Chronos, MD, FACC, FESC & Michelle Lamm, AGNP
February is Heart Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease and promoting healthy habits. At Lake Country Medical Group, heart health is at the core of what we do every day. To mark this important month, Dr. Nicolas Chronos and Michelle Lamm, AGNP, sat down for a discussion about heart disease prevention, the importance of early intervention, and how small lifestyle changes can make a significant impact on overall heart health.
Dr. Chronos: Michelle, February is Heart Health Month, and it’s always a great time to remind our community about the importance of cardiovascular wellness. Given that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., we have a lot of work to do when it comes to prevention and education. What’s the biggest misconception you see when talking to patients about heart health?
Michelle Lamm: One of the biggest misconceptions is that heart disease is only a concern for older men. Women, especially younger women, often don’t realize that heart disease is their leading health risk as well. In fact, it claims more lives than all cancers combined. We have to keep reinforcing that prevention starts early, and it applies to everyone.
Dr. Chronos: That’s such an important point. We see it all the time—women coming in with symptoms that don’t fit the classic ‘elephant-on-the-chest’ heart attack description. Instead, they might have fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, or even jaw pain. Raising awareness about these differences is crucial.
Michelle Lamm: Exactly. And that’s why prevention is key. Lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management can significantly lower the risk of heart disease. You and I worked hard to bring the Dean Ornish Cardiovascular Disease Reversal Program to our community, and we saw firsthand how powerful lifestyle medicine can be. Small changes can make a big impact.
Dr. Chronos: Absolutely. The research is clear—heart disease can often be prevented and even reversed through diet, exercise, and medical management. But for many patients, taking that first step can feel overwhelming. What advice do you give to patients who don’t know where to start?
Michelle Lamm: I tell them to focus on one change at a time. Maybe start by adding more fruits and vegetables to their meals or swapping processed foods for whole foods. Walking for 30 minutes a day is another simple but powerful step. Following a heart-healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet, is another great way to protect the heart—it emphasizes whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats like olive oil, and plenty of fresh produce. And of course, knowing your numbers—blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar—can help us identify risks early.
Dr. Chronos: That’s great advice. Prevention really comes down to making heart-healthy choices every day. And for those already diagnosed with heart disease, we have so many advanced treatments available right here at Lake Country Medical Group, from cutting-edge imaging to personalized medication management. It’s about creating a plan that works for each individual.
Michelle Lamm: That’s what I love about our team approach to cardiology. We’re not just treating heart disease—we’re working with our patients to prevent it in the first place. Education is a big part of that, and I love seeing patients become more empowered in their own health.
Dr. Chronos: Couldn’t agree more. This Heart Health Month, we encourage everyone to take a moment to assess their heart health, make small but meaningful changes, and reach out to us if they have any concerns. We’re here to help, whether it’s for prevention, diagnosis, or treatment.
Michelle Lamm: Absolutely. And let’s not forget—showing your heart some love isn’t just about what you do in February. It’s a lifelong commitment.
Dr. Chronos: Well said, Michelle. Here’s to a heart-healthy community, all year round!
Heart health is a journey, and every small step counts. Whether it’s choosing healthier foods, getting more active, or simply learning more about your heart, every effort adds up to a stronger, healthier future. At Lake Country Medical Group, we are here to support our community in making heart-healthy choices every day. If you have any concerns about your heart health or want to learn more about prevention and treatment options, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your heart is in good hands with us.
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