Heart care with purpose: Dr. Owusu Asamoah on representation and prevention
Salem, Va. — At LewisGale Medical Center, the cardiology team helps people lower their risk of heart disease through prevention and early detection — and provides timely care when treatment is needed.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Interventional cardiologist Owusu Asamoah, MD, says some cardiovascular conditions can be more common — and more severe — in Black communities.
The American Heart Association has reported higher cardiovascular risk and poorer outcomes in Black communities. Asamoah says he keeps those disparities in mind in his day-to-day work. “As a Black physician, my primary focus is preventing cardiovascular disease — which disproportionately affects Black communities — through early intervention, education and screening,” he said.
Why Black History Month matters in medicine
For Asamoah, Black History Month is a time to recognize the impact Black physicians have made — and the work that still needs to be done.
“Black History Month in medicine celebrates the profound contributions of Black physicians, underscores the importance of diversity in improving patient outcomes, and honors the pioneers who overcame systemic barriers,” he said. “It also serves as a call to action to address ongoing healthcare disparities, strengthen representation, and mentor future generations of Black doctors.”
A focus on prevention and timely intervention
Asamoah emphasizes the importance of identifying risk factors early to reduce the chance of serious complications. He points to education, screening and prevention as essential steps — along with access to timely care when heart disease is already present. His work with the cardiology team at LewisGale Medical Center includes minimally invasive, catheter-based procedures to open blocked arteries and repair or replace heart valves.
Nearly seven years in practice — and a long-term commitment
Asamoah has practiced for nearly seven years. He says a “deep and personal commitment to helping others,” along with a fascination with science, led him to cardiology — especially the fast-paced field of interventional care.
Asamoah’s commitment to improving heart health extends well beyond the hospital walls. Each spring, he travels to Ghana, where he spends time providing free medical care through community-based cardiovascular screenings.
“I dedicate about two weeks every spring to serving communities in Ghana,” he said. “During that time, we offer free screenings and education focused on the prevention and early detection of cardiovascular disease.”
The same prevention-first mindset that guides his work in Ghana also shapes how Asamoah cares for patients at LewisGale Medical Center. By pairing education and early screening with minimally invasive options when treatment is needed, he is focused on helping more people catch heart risks sooner — and get the right care without delay.
Learn more about cardiology services at LewisGale Medical Center.