Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, in the United States Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, diseases of the heart muscle, electrical disturbances of the heart rhythm, high blood pressure, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. all contribute to this morbidity. According to current estimates, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and stoke affect nearly 58 million Americans. The USF Signature Interdisciplinary Program in Cardiovascular Research is a comprehensive program that brings together resources in heart care, research and education to fight against cardiovascular disease. Clinicians and researchers at USF are working to improve our knowledge of cardiovascular disease in order to develop new methods of prevention and treatment that will make a difference in the lives of patients with cardiovascular disorders.