AUSTIN, July 22, 2026 – Regular checkups do more than help children recover when they’re sick. They can catch health concerns early, keep vaccinations on track and help families build healthy habits that last a lifetime. But nationally, up to half of recommended well-child visits are missed, creating missed opportunities to detect and address health issues before they become more serious. To help change that trend, the American Heart Association and Ascension Seton are encouraging parents and caregivers across Central Texas to schedule regular well-child visits through the Association’s Doctor, It’s Been Too Long campaign.

 Most parents recognize the value of annual checkups, but many children still miss preventative care visits. These appointments provide opportunities for doctors to monitor growth and development, screen for physical/behavioral health concerns and help families navigate important health milestones.

"Routine checkups are far more than routine appointments - they are the foundation for a child's lifelong health and wellness," said Alefiyah Malbari, M.D., associate professor and division chief of ambulatory pediatrics, Dell Medical School at the University of Texas Austin. "By consistently monitoring growth and development, we can identify health concerns early, keep vaccinations on track, and partner with families to build healthy habits. Every well-child visit is a vital step toward a brighter, healthier future for our children and our community."

The need is significant. Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. children and adolescents live with obesity, a risk factor for future heart disease. Regular visits also provide opportunities to discuss mental health, healthy screen habits, physical activity, nutrition and the risk of vaping and tobacco use. For some families in Central Texas, though, accessing care is not always easy. Cost concerns, busy schedules, transportation challenges and provider shortages can make it difficult to keep preventative appointments, particularly for families in rural and historically underserved communities.

"At Dell Children's, we are steadfast in our commitment to delivering high-quality, life-saving care to every child in our community," said Dr. Meena Iyer, chief medical officer, Dell Children's Medical Center. “Having regular check-ups is vital to achieving a healthy future, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that every family in Central Texas has seamless access to the essential healthcare they deserve and need."

The American Heart Association and Live Fierce, Be Relentless sponsor Ascension Seton encourage Central Texas families to establish a relationship with a primary care provider and make annual well-child visits part of their routine.

For more information, visit heart.org/CallYourDoctor.

 

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

 

For Media Inquiries:

Michael Vybiral: michael.vybiral@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org