CardioVisual observed PAD Awareness Month in September and focused on getting the word out about the signs and risks of PAD. This is a great time to talk to your patients about PAD and how they can prevent it. PAD affects nearly 20 million Americans and most often forms as a result of atherosclerosis. It is the cause of an estimated 200,000 preventable amputations annually.

According to a study from Duke University, 48% of patients receiving amputations die within the first year and 78% die within three years. PAD is strongly associated with risk of heart attack and stroke and early detection and treatment can lead to saving limbs and lives.

The most common risk factors for PAD include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Remind your patients of PAD symptoms, including:

• Leg pain when walking
• Leg numbness or weakness
• Coldness on lower leg or feet
• Sores or ulcers on lower extremities that won’t heal
• Change in color of legs

CardioVisual offers comprehensive information on all aspects of PAD to help patients understand PAD, its prevention, treatments, and procedures. Share this introductory video with your patients with questions about PAD: