Peripheral Arterial Disease Detection, Awareness, and Treatment in Primary Care

Abstract

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a highly prevalent atherosclerotic syndrome that affects approximately 8 to 12 million individuals in the United States and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.^1-4 Because of its high prevalence, high rates of nonfatal cardiovascular ischemic events (myocardial infarction [MI], stroke, and other thromboembolic events), increased mortality, and diminution of quality of life, the consequences of PAD in US communities are significant.^1-5 A regional pilot study of community screening for PAD demonstrated that patient awareness of the PAD diagnosis was low and associated with low atherosclerosis risk factor, antiplatelet, and claudication treatment intensity.⁵ There have been no national efforts in the United States to detect PAD in community-based office practice, to assess both physician and patient awareness of the diagnosis, or to assess the intensity of medical treatments. PAD has not emerged as a focus of public health efforts to improve quality of life nor to decrease the associated cardiovascular ischemic risk.