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Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

The Only Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Program in New Jersey

heart trio graphic

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common hereditary medical condition that afflicts one in 500 Americans. HCM results in the walls of the heart becoming excessively thick and it may obstruct blood flow from leaving the heart. Symptoms often overlap other medical ailments and treating it can be complex. It is a genetic disease and more than one family member may be affected.

Chanin T. Mast Center for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute at Morristown Medical Center, part of Atlantic Health System Heart Care, has the only HCM center in New Jersey. The Chanin T. Mast Center for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, which provides nurturing, specialized, world-class care to patients for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of those with known or suspected of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Symptoms of HCM can include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Inability to exercise
  • Chest pressure or pain
  • Fainting

We provide the following services:

  • Convenient access to specialists and our world-renowned co-medical directors
  • Individualized coordinated multidisciplinary evaluation, management and patient/family support
  • Imaging and diagnostics as well as access to interventions including implantation of defibrillators and catheter-based interventions
  • HCM screenings and community outreach to help protect young athletes from sudden cardiac death

Working with HCM patients and letting them know they’re not alone is my dream come true. I tell them not to let HCM define you. My brother and I are proof that you can have HCM and still live a normal life.

Sara, HCM patient and CMA at Atlantic Medical Group HCM Associates
Read Sara's Story

Diagnostic Tests and Services

Our center provides convenient access to specialists and our world-renowned co-medical directors, as well as individualized coordinated multidisciplinary evaluation, management and patient/family support.  We provide HCM screenings, community outreach, as well as imaging and diagnostics. In addition to a comprehensive physical exam,  the following tests to confirm and manage your HCM:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Echocardiogram (Echo)
  • Stress (exercise) echocardiogram
  • Cardiac MRI

Treatment for Patients with HCM

To manage symptoms, and to prevent sudden cardiac death, there are several treatment options for HCM.  Learn more >

Physician services are provided by Atlantic Medical Group >


Chanin T. Mast Center for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Robert and Terry Mast of Morristown named the Center in honor of their daughter Chanin, who was diagnosed with HCM in 1987 and passed away due to ventricular fibrillation in 1999.

The Masts believe Chanin could have benefitted if she had a central team specializing in HCM with knowledge of all treatment options and their side effects as well as the severe emotional impact on the patient and the patient’s loved ones.

A photograph of Chanin T. Mast

Sara's Story

When Sara's younger brother received a surprising diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), she realized she had it, too. Five years later, her HCM is under control, and she’s helping others realize that they can have the condition and still lead a normal life. 

Genetic Testing

If you have a family history of cardiomyopathy, aortic root enlargement or structural cardiac abnormalities, a genetic evaluation may be helpful.