# Cardiovascular disease awareness in Latin America > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cardiovascular-disease-awareness-in-latin-america > Updated: 2026-09-26T21:47:29.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Health officials and medical experts across Suriname, Panama, and Colombia are intensifying efforts to raise awareness regarding cardiovascular disease and preventative lifestyle habits. In Suriname, health advocates are focusing on the specific risks faced by women, noting that heart attack symptoms in females can differ from those in men, which often leads to delayed medical intervention. Dr. Shalini Dwarkasing-Ramautar of the Rotary Club of Paramaribo Quota has called for increased structural awareness and the promotion of healthy nutrition and exercise. In Panama, the Ministry of Health reported that cardiorenal-cerebrovascular diseases account for approximately 52% of deaths, noting high rates of obesity within the population. Meanwhile, in Colombia, the Colombian Heart Foundation has warned that managing blood sugar is insufficient for diabetic patients, as up to 80% of those with diabetes die from cardiovascular causes. Experts in the region are emphasizing the necessity of monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure to mitigate risks such as strokes and heart attacks. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-26: Cardiovascular health awareness efforts intensify in Panama and Colombia Health officials in Panama and Colombia are raising awareness about cardiovascular disease risks, noting high rates of obesity in Panama and the critical link between diabetes and heart failure in Colombia. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cardiovascular-health-awareness-efforts-intensify-in-panama-and-colombia ### 2026-09-24: Suriname health officials urge awareness of cardiovascular disease in women Medical experts in Suriname are raising awareness about cardiovascular disease in women, noting that symptoms often differ from men and can lead to delayed treatment. Efforts focus on prevention and education. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/suriname-health-officials-urge-awareness-of-cardiovascular-disease-in-women --- Cite as: Cardiovascular disease awareness in Latin America. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cardiovascular-disease-awareness-in-latin-america