Little Rock, Ark. – Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in both the United States
and Arkansas, claiming the lives of 8,531 Arkansans in 2024 alone. This is about one death
every hour of the year.
In recognition of American Heart Month, the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) reminds
Arkansans that heart attacks often happen suddenly, and quick action by the patient or
bystanders can mean the difference between life and death. According to Bala Simon, MD,
DrPH, Deputy Chief Medical Officer and State Chronic Disease Director, “Heart disease
continues to be the leading cause of death in Arkansas. Recognizing heart attack symptoms
early and calling 9-1-1 right away allows emergency medical services and hospitals to begin
life-saving treatment as quickly as possible.”
Recognizing a Heart Attack
Heart attack symptoms can vary and may not always be sudden or severe. Common warning
signs include:
- Chest discomfort: Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest that
- lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body: Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the
back, neck, jaw, or stomach. - Shortness of breath: With or without chest discomfort.
- Other symptoms: Cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness, or unusual fatigue – especially
in women.
If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not drive
yourself to the hospital.
Why Calling 9-1-1 Matters
Using emergency medical services allows care to begin sooner, including early diagnosis,
rapid transport to the most appropriate hospital, and faster treatment to restore blood flow to
the heart. Arriving by ambulance can significantly reduce treatment delays and improve
survival.
Major Risk Factors for Heart Attack
The leading risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity and physical inactivity
- Family history of heart disease
Many of these risk factors are preventable or manageable. Arkansans are encouraged to see
their primary care provider regularly and take steps such as eating a heart-healthy diet, staying
physically active, quitting smoking, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol.
Advancing Heart Attack Care in Arkansas
ADH works with hospitals, emergency medical services, and statewide partners through
initiatives such as the Arkansas Heart Attack Ready Hospital (AHAR) program to ensure
Arkansans receive timely, high-quality heart attack care.
The message during American Heart Month is clear: Know the signs. Call 9-1-1. Act fast.
For more information on heart attack prevention and heart health in Arkansas, visit
www.healthy.arkansas.gov.