Dr. Andrew LePorte Shares Strategies for Managing and Reversing High Blood Pressure with Laurinburg Rotary Club

Members of the Rotary Club of Laurinburg welcomed Dr. Andrew D. LePorte, a board-certified family physician with Laurinburg Family Practice and Urgent Care, for an informative and engaging presentation on high blood pressure and the possibility of reducing or even eliminating the need for medication through lifestyle changes.

During the presentation, Dr. LePorte emphasized that high blood pressure—often called the “silent killer”—is one of the most common and dangerous health conditions affecting adults. He noted that it is frequently the first chronic condition requiring medication and is a major contributor to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious complications.

“Many people believe that once you start blood pressure medication, you’re on it for life,” Dr. LePorte said. “That’s not always true. With the right changes, many patients can reduce or even come off medications altogether.”

Drawing on research such as the landmark Framingham Heart Study, Dr. LePorte explained that blood pressure above optimal levels significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events. Even readings slightly above normal can raise the likelihood of heart attack or stroke, underscoring the importance of early prevention and management.

Dr. LePorte outlined several key lifestyle strategies proven to lower blood pressure:

• • Weight loss: Losing even modest amounts of weight can significantly reduce blood pressure, with measurable improvements seen for each pound lost.
• • Heart-healthy nutrition: He recommended the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which focuses on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole foods.
• • Reducing sodium intake: Limiting sodium and choosing low-salt options can dramatically improve blood pressure control.
• • Regular exercise: At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
• • Stress management and healthy habits: Reducing stress, limiting alcohol, and quitting smoking all contribute to better outcomes.
  
  

He also encouraged attendees to be intentional about daily health choices, noting that consistent habits can lead to meaningful improvements in as little as eight weeks.

Dr. LePorte highlighted that many complications of high blood pressure develop silently over time, including damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and vision. Because symptoms are often absent, he stressed the importance of routine monitoring and proactive care.

In addition to discussing prevention, Dr. LePorte reassured attendees that medications remain an important and sometimes necessary tool. However, he emphasized that lifestyle interventions can complement treatment and, in some cases, reduce reliance on prescriptions.

Dr. LePorte has served patients across the Carolinas since 2018 and has been practicing in Laurinburg for the past four years. He shared that one of the most rewarding aspects of his work is helping patients take control of their health and achieve lasting improvements.

A graduate of Clemson University, where he earned magna cum laude honors, Dr. LePorte received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his Family Medicine Residency through Duke/Southern Regional AHEC in Fayetteville.

Known for his commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. LePorte has held leadership roles in the medical community and has been recognized as a Business North Carolina Top Doctor. He consistently maintains patient satisfaction scores above 90 percent and provides comprehensive primary care along with a wide range of in-office procedures.

His presentation concluded with a message of empowerment: small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in long-term health.

“Every meal, every walk, every daily choice matters,” Dr. LePorte said. “If you stay intentional, you can change your health trajectory.”