How to protect your heart, from one Latino to another

Connecticut Public – Tuesday, February 17, 2026
By Daniela Doncel

It may be easy to reach for the vivaporú, or Vicks VapoRub, to treat chest pain or pressure, but Dr. Ricardo Avendaño is encouraging Latinos in Connecticut to connect with a primary care physician and take steps to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Many Latinos are hesitant to see a doctor for a variety of reasons, according to Dr. Avendaño, a cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiologist at Saint Francis Hospital. He says it can be a “big cultural challenge” to encourage those people to take preventative measures for the sake of their health.

Click here to read the entire article.