“I went into academic medicine because I wanted to take care of patients while pushing the field forward at the same time. Donor support is what makes both possible here at UNC. Donor support helps to fund the research infrastructure, studies, and training of the next generation of physician-scientists who will carry this work forward long after I’m gone.”
Matthew A. Cavender, MD, MPH, FACC
Director, Cardiology Clinical Trials
Associate Professor of Medicine
Heart disease is the leading—and most preventable—cause of death in North Carolina, with rural communities facing the greatest barriers to early detection and care.
At UNC Health and the UNC School of Medicine, we are addressing this challenge today through a comprehensive, statewide network that delivers high-quality cardiovascular care across the full continuum—from prevention and diagnosis to advanced treatment and recovery. Patients benefit from seamless access to specialists, innovative procedures, and coordinated care close to home, ensuring earlier detection and interventions, and better outcomes.
A wealth of new research is advancing what’s possible in heart and vascular care. Physician-scientists are uncovering the biological drivers of coronary artery disease, pioneering minimally invasive treatments for complex heart rhythm disorders, and leading nationally recognized efforts in preventive cardiology. From genetic discovery to wearable technologies that detect early signs of disease, these innovations are reshaping how heart disease is understood, prevented, and treated.
Building on this strong foundation, UNC Health is working to expand access to preventive cardiology across North Carolina, particularly in underserved and rural communities. This effort will integrate care, research, and innovation to deliver early detection, personalized prevention, and targeted interventions at scale.
Your support can help expand access to life-saving cardiovascular care— bringing life-saving treatment to patients in every corner of the state. Continued investment helps to broaden our reach and provide more people with the care they need—reducing complications, improving outcomes, and saving lives.
We would welcome the opportunity to connect and discuss your interests. Please contact:
Matt Cain
Assistant Vice President, Major and Principal Giving
[email protected] | 919‑445‑6696