Heart disease continues to be one of the leading causes of death in Texas, and here in the Brazos Valley, the numbers make it clear that this is a serious local health concern. While heart disease affects people across all communities, county-level data shows important differences in risk throughout our region.
Understanding these statistics is the first step toward prevention.
Brazos Valley Heart Disease Death Rates by County
Below is a breakdown of heart disease death rates of Adults 35+ per 100,000 residents in Brazos Valley counties via the CDC:
Brazos County
375 per 100,000
As home to Bryan and College Station, Brazos County has access to major healthcare facilities and educational institutions. Even so, the death rate remains concerning—reinforcing the need for prevention, early detection, and lifestyle awareness.
Burleson County
487 per 100,000
Burleson County has the highest reported rate in the region. Rural healthcare access challenges, higher rates of chronic conditions, and delayed care may all contribute to increased risk.
Burleson County
463 per 100,000
Robertson County’s rate is significantly above the state average. This highlights the importance of regular screenings and hypertension management.
Grimes County
439 per 100,000
Residents in Grimes County face elevated heart disease mortality rates, underscoring the need for community-wide education on heart health and prevention.
Leon County
467 per 100,000
Leon County’s rate is also among the highest in the region. Early intervention and consistent primary care are key protective factors.
Madison County
442 per 100,000
For adults aged 35 and older in Madison County, heart disease remains a major risk. Midlife prevention strategies can dramatically reduce long-term complications.
Washington County
304 per 100,000
Washington County has the lowest rate in the region, but 304 deaths per 100,000 residents is still a serious public health concern. Prevention efforts remain critical.
The Role of Hypertension
One of the most significant risk factors in our region is high blood pressure.
Hypertension represents approximately 70% of all heart disease cases.
Often called the “silent killer,” hypertension can develop without noticeable symptoms. Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure damages arteries, increases strain on the heart, and significantly raises the risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
The good news? Hypertension is manageable.
Why Are Rates Higher in Some Counties?
Several factors may influence these county differences:
- Limited access to healthcare providers in rural areas
- Fewer preventive screenings
- Higher rates of obesity and diabetes
- Tobacco use
- Socioeconomic barriers
- Delayed emergency response times
Rural communities often face additional challenges when it comes to specialty cardiac care, which can impact outcomes.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Chest discomfort or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the jaw, neck, back, or arm
- Sudden nausea or lightheadedness
Early treatment saves heart muscle and lives.
Prevention Starts with Knowing Your Numbers
If you are 35 or older, especially in counties with elevated death rates, proactive heart care is critical.
Know your:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Blood sugar
- Body mass index (BMI)
Small lifestyle changes can make a measurable difference:
- Reduce sodium intake
- Increase physical activity
- Quit smoking
- Manage stress
- Follow up regularly with a healthcare provider
A Regional Call to Action
Heart disease is not just a national issue; it is a Brazos Valley issue.
With counties like Burleson (487 per 100,000), Leon (467 per 100,000), and Robertson (463 per 100,000) experiencing especially high mortality rates, prevention efforts must remain a community priority.
By increasing awareness, encouraging screenings, and managing hypertension early, we can reduce these numbers and protect families across the region.
BVRAC and Regional Heart Health Prevention
Brazos Valley Regional Advisory Council (BVRAC) plays a critical role in strengthening regional healthcare preparedness, coordination, and public education across the Brazos Valley.
Through community outreach, prevention campaigns, professional training, and collaboration with local hospitals and emergency responders, BVRAC works to improve outcomes for time-sensitive medical emergencies, including heart attacks and stroke.
By promoting awareness of warning signs, encouraging early intervention, and supporting coordinated emergency response systems, BVRAC helps ensure that residents across Brazos, Burleson, Robertson, Grimes, Leon, Madison, and Washington counties have access to life-saving care when it matters most.
Community education and early recognition are powerful tools. When residents understand their risk and seek care quickly, survival and recovery outcomes improve significantly.
Data Source
Final Thoughts
Heart disease remains one of the most preventable causes of death. The data across Brazos Valley counties shows that action is needed, particularly in rural communities where rates are highest.
Know the signs.
Know your numbers.
Protect your heart. ❤️