EDITOR’S NOTE: Physicians, providers and administrative staff who practice at Maui Health hospitals and clinics answer questions from the public in Healthwise Maui, which appears on Thursdays. Maui Health operates Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lana’i Community Hospital and accepts all patients. To submit a question, go to the website at mauihealth.org/healthwise.

Q: What is Heart Month and why is it important?

Leslie Lexier, BSN, RN Quality Management Analyst and Heart Failure Program Lead, Maui Memorial Medical Center: Heart Month, observed every February, is dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and the prevention of heart disease — the leading cause of death worldwide. This month serves as a crucial reminder of the impact of heart disease while empowering individuals and communities to take proactive steps toward heart health.

Raising awareness during Heart Month is important because it educates people about prevention strategies like maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, and managing stress. It also encourages regular check-ups and screenings, which can detect risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes before they lead to serious complications.

Beyond individual health, Heart Month highlights the role of mental well-being in cardiovascular health and advocates for policies that promote healthier communities. It also amplifies the voices of healthcare professionals and organizations working to reduce heart disease and improve overall health outcomes.

By spreading awareness and encouraging action, Heart Month helps people take charge of their heart health — because small changes today can lead to a healthier tomorrow.

Q: What is peripheral artery disease (PAD), and what does it mean for my heart health?

Dr. Jason Call, Interventional Cardiologist, Pacific Permanente Group: Peripheral artery disease happens when the arteries that carry blood away from your heart narrow, slowing blood flow to your legs, feet, and other areas. It can cause complications such as poor wound healing, infections, and may eventually lead to amputation. PAD also raises your risk of heart attack and stroke.

One classic sign of lower-body PAD is leg pain or cramping that worsens with walking and eases with rest. Other warning signs include cold feet, slow-healing sores or patchy, discolored skin. Because these symptoms can resemble arthritis, PAD may go undiagnosed and lead to delayed treatment.

Treatment, including medications that control cholesterol and blood pressure, can help you feel better, reduce serious risks, and improve your symptoms. Lifestyle changes — such as quitting smoking, following a heart-healthy diet, exercising under supervision and managing stress — support heart health and help keep PAD from getting worse. In more severe cases, peripheral vascular procedures — such as balloon angioplasty, stent placement, or surgery — may be necessary to open or bypass blocked blood vessels.

Acting early is essential for managing PAD. With early intervention, your doctor can help control symptoms, reduce complications and improve your quality of life. If you’re experiencing leg pain or other concerning symptoms, talk with your doctor.

At Maui Health, our interventional cardiologists are experts in coronary interventions and peripheral vascular procedures. Our multidisciplinary team works together to diagnose and treat a variety of heart conditions so you can get the care you need without having to travel off the island. To make an appointment with a heart specialist, call the Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic at (808) 442-5700.