PAD is common, affecting between 8 and 12 million Americans. PAD becomes more common with age, particularly after age 50. Smoking is the most important risk factor for PAD. In fact, 80% of people with PAD are current or former smokers. Diabetes also greatly increases the risk for PAD; high blood pressure and high cholesterol also contribute. African-Americans have a two-fold higher risk of developing PAD compared other groups. A personal history or family history of cardiovascular disease may also increase the risk for PAD.
Promoting an increased awareness and standardized approaches in diagnosing and treating peripheral artery disease