The Silent Danger of Peripheral Arterial Disease

More than 8 million people--one in 20 adults--have peripheral arterial disease (PAD), a condition that puts them at risk for heart attack, stroke, or leg amputation.

The symptoms of PAD--such as fatigue, pain, and cramping in the leg muscles when walking that go away with rest--are often mistaken for signs of aging and ignored. More often the disease is silent, causing no noticeable symptoms.

SPH adjunct professor Alan Hirsch has helped to create national PAD care standards and is now working to raise awareness of this common danger as chair of the PAD Coalition, a nonprofit alliance of health organizations, professionals, and government agencies. PAD occurs when arteries in the legs become clogged with fatty deposits that limit blood flow. The obstructions signal an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Despite these dangers, a recent national survey found that three quarters of American adults have never heard of PAD.

"Because the public is largely unaware of PAD, it is usually left untreated until it is most severe, leaving people vulnerable to heart attack, stroke, and considerable disability," says Hirsch. "At a time when the public is bombarded with health messages, it would seem wise for those at risk for one of the single most common cardiovascular diseases to be aware of that risk."

The best way to fight PAD is through increased awareness and early detection. Those most at risk are people over the age of 50, diabetics, smokers, African Americans, and people with high blood pressure.

"PAD is one of the most dangerous cardiovascular diseases that no one has ever heard of," says Hirsch. "By increasing public awareness, we can reduce unnecessary suffering and improve the nation¿s vascular health."

To learn more, visit www.aboutpad.org or www.padcoalition.org.

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