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

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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.

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