As Heart-Awareness Month unfolds, Morehouse School of Medicine hosts a men’s breakfast, and the conversation around cardiovascular health takes center stage. At the forefront of this dialogue is Dr. William Cooper, a featured doctor in the upcoming Heartbeat docuseries. He is a distinguished cardiovascular surgeon whose career has been shaped by personal loss, professional excellence and a relentless commitment to improving Black men’s health outcomes.
Dr. Cooper’s journey into medicine was deeply personal. The loss of his mother became a catalyst, driving him to specialize in heart health. His expertise has made him a leading voice in the field, and his recent participation in Morehouse School of Medicine’s anniversary event reaffirmed his dedication to mentoring the next generation of Black medical professionals.
One of the most pressing issues Dr. Cooper highlights is the often-overlooked connection between sleep apnea and heart disease. He explains that sleep apnea, a condition disproportionately affecting Black men, disrupts normal oxygen levels, placing undue stress on the cardiovascular system. This chronic strain can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure and other life-threatening conditions.
Beyond the science, Dr. Cooper addresses the broader cultural and systemic challenges that hinder Black men from seeking proper heart care. Mistrust in the healthcare system, he notes, is deeply rooted in historical injustices. From unethical medical experiments to racial disparities in treatment, this skepticism has prevented many from engaging with doctors early enough to prevent severe heart disease.
As Heart-Awareness Month continues, Dr. Cooper’s insights serve as a powerful reminder: addressing heart disease isn’t just about lifestyle changes, it’s about dismantling systemic barriers, providing resources and rebuilding trust in healthcare. His message is clear: education, access and mentorship can save lives.
For more information about Morehouse School of Medicine, visit: msm.edu
