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GASTONIA, N.C. -- Dustin P. Letts, M.D., has been called a lifesaver. In his mind, he's just doing his job.

Dr. Letts joined Mid Carolina Cardiology in July, bringing his expertise in peripheral vascular disease (PVD) to Gaston County residents. PVD affects nearly 10 million Americans and occurs when the arteries carrying blood to the arms and legs become narrowed or clogged. "When most people think of cardiovascular disease, they stop at the heart," said Dr. Letts. "But it's important to be able to care for the whole body."

Left untreated, PVD can increase the risk for heart disease and stroke. Since the symptoms aren't as classic or well-known as chest pain, however, most people don't seek out proper care on their own. In fact, less than 25% of individuals who suffer from PVD are being treated for it. Dr. Letts said that leg pain while walking, uncontrollable high blood pressure or numbness in the arms and legs could all be caused by PVD.

Dr. Letts can perform a series of noninvasive tests, such as ultrasound or exercise studies, to determine if a patient has PVD. If so, the condition can be improved by a procedure similar to a heart catheterization--the main difference is that the kidney or leg arteries, rather than the arteries of the heart--are targeted. Lifestyle adjustments can also decrease the chance that a patient with PVD will develop heart disease.

Dr. Letts' journey as a doctor has taken him up and down the East Coast. The Macon, Ga. native attended medical school close to home but completed his residency in Charlotte and then spent five years in fellowship training at the University of Pittsburgh. His journey culminated this summer, when he moved to Gastonia with his wife and three daughters and set out to improve the health of his new community. "I have the best of both worlds here," said Dr. Letts. "I love everything about Gastonia--it has a small-town feel but close proximity to Charlotte, and the people are good, hard-working people."

In just three short months, Dr. Letts has infused his knowledge and compassion into the community, and he's already saving lives. Don't tell him that, though--he'll probably just respond that he's doing his job.

Mid Carolina Cardiology Gastonia is located at 2555 Court Drive, Suite 300. Dr. Letts and his partners offer the best in cardiovascular care. For more information, call 704-868-3256 or visit www.mccardiology.com.