American Heart Association hosts conversation to spotlight maternal heart health challenges and solutions
PROVIDENCE, RI, May 28, 2025 — Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of maternal death in the United States. To address this urgent health issue, the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives for all, hosted a Community Conversation on Maternal Cardiovascular Health to engage healthcare providers, policy leaders and public health advocates from across Rhode Island.
The event, sponsored by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, provided a platform for local experts to discuss the link between pregnancy-related cardiovascular conditions and long-term health risks. The panel emphasized the importance of identifying and managing risk factors such as hypertension, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, conditions that pose significant risk to overall maternal health.
“The health risks associated with cardiovascular disease don’t end when pregnancy does,” said Michelle Clark, executive director for the American Heart Association. “This conversation was an opportunity to advance knowledge, foster collaboration and develop sustainable strategies to improve women’s health before, during and long after pregnancy.”
The discussion focused on empowering healthcare providers with tools and best practices for the early detection and management of cardiovascular risks during pregnancy and postpartum. Panelists shared evidence-based strategies such as integrating cardiovascular screening into routine prenatal care, recognizing early warning signs of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension, and using electronic medical records to flag high-risk patients. They also emphasized the importance of patient education materials tailored to various literacy levels, culturally competent care delivery and referrals to community-based resources that support nutrition, stress management and postpartum follow-up.
Featured panelists included:
• Dr. Bridget McCabe, MD, MPH, Senior Medical Director, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island
• Dr. Lisa Ruth Domagalski, OBGYN, SNE Women’s Health
• Dr. Libertad Flores, OBGYN, Brown University Health, and Providence Community Health Centers
• Dr. Martha Kole-White, MD, CPPS, Women & Infants Hospital
• Dr. Alisse Hauspurg, MD, MS, Women & Infants Hospital
The event also highlighted the lifelong impact of maternal heart health, including the often-overlooked cardiovascular risks during menopause. Topics included lifestyle interventions, patient education, and integrated care strategies supporting women through all life stages.
To watch the complete panel discussion, visit Maternal Heart Health Panel | American Heart Association – YouTube