LEWISTON — Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute will host the 11th annual “A Heart to Heart” Conference on heart disease on Saturday, Feb. 26, in the Chairmen’s Rooms, lower level, 12 High Street Medical Office Building.

Presentations will kick off at 8:30 a.m. with Dr. Katarina Latkovich, Central Maine Internal Medicine, discussing “Metabolic Syndrome: A Chronic Illness Conspiracy,” focusing on a set of conditions, unhealthy blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and body shape, that can increase an individual’s risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. She will explain how lifestyle changes can delay or prevent the development of serious health problems.

Latkovich earned her medical degree at the University of Belgrade in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, and completed residency training at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, Mass. She is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

The morning’s second presenter, Dr. Allan M. Ingraham, Central Maine Cardiovascular Surgery, will explore “Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and Rehab.”

Ingraham will explain how hardening and narrowing of the arteries can obstruct the supply of blood to the arms and legs. He will describe the symptoms and discuss how they are diagnosed and treated.

Prior to joining Central Maine Cardiovascular Surgery, Ingraham practiced in partnership with Dr. Pamela R. Rietsche in Lewiston for many years. He is a graduate of Tufts University in Medford, Mass., and earned his medical degree at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. He did residency training at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and the University of Missouri in Columbia, Mo. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery.

Registered and licensed dietitian Corinne Carrier of Central Maine Bariatric Surgery, third speaker, will discuss “Olive Oil Isn’t Just for Popeye Anymore! Eating Well with a Mediterranean Diet.”

Carrier will explain what a traditional Mediterranean diet is, how it reduces the risk of heart disease and how such meals can be delicious and healthful.

Carrier graduated from the University of Maine in Orono with a bachelor’s degree in food science and human nutrition. She later completed a dietetic internship with the Department of Health and Environmental Control in Columbia, S.C. She also completed weight management certificate training in Plantation, Fla.

Personal health coach Nate Littlefield, CMMC Wellness Center, will lead a session called “Within You: Motivation for Change,” exploring how individuals can find the motivation to make changes promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Registration will begin at 8 a.m. A continental breakfast will be provided. The event is open to public. There is no charge for participation. Seating is limited to the first 100 registrants.

To register or for more information, call 795-8448. Registrations can also be made via e-mail at prevention@cmhc.org or by visiting the events calendar at www.cmmc.org. Interpreter services are available upon advance request.