How to Show Up & Show Out with International Pediatric Cardiologist, Dr. Annette Ansong (PART 1)

February is month where we celebrate the accomplishments of African-Americans.  From health to politics, African-American have played a pivotal roll in the success of our country. February also serves as an opportunity to discuss heart disease.  Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the United States as well as world wide.  Unfortunately, the risks and consequently the development of heart disease is a target for all providers.   When should we start discussing cardiac risk and heart disease? Our guest today informs us that curbing cardiac risk should occur as soon as possible, even in children.  In part 1 of this exciting episode, Dr.  Ansong discusses the rigors of medical school, why she choose pediatric cardiology and the dangers of the childhood obesity epidemic in this country.  She also highlights the dangers of provider burnout and offers some key strategies to overcome this dangerous issue. ----------------------------Annette K. Ansong, MD, FACC, is a board-certified pediatric cardiologist and the medical director of outpatient cardiology at Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC.   Dr. Ansong is the proud daughter of immigrants from Ghana and was raised in the Washington, D.C. area.   She is a graduate of the University of Virginia, followed by medical school at Howard University College of Medicine.   She completed her Pediatrics residency and Pediatric Cardiology fellowship at Duke University Medical Center, while also obtaining a Master of Health Science in Clinical Research.   She has been the recipient of multiple Top Doctor Awards. She is involved regionally and nationally on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. She also has an interest in global health and has performed mission work in Ghana and Haiti.  She is involved regionally and nationally on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion.  She has also worked globally to improve health and has performed numerous mission trips to both Ghana and Haiti.  Dr. Ansong is a strong believer that heart health begins with our children.   She currently co-chairs the Women and Children Committee of the Association of Black Cardiologist, Inc., and  serves on the Adult Congenital & Pediatric Cardiology Leadership Council of the American College of Cardiology.    Her career interests and passion have allowed for multiple publications, case reports and presentations.