A recent study has brought to light the severe underdiagnosis and lack of treatment for peripheral artery disease, leading to dire outcomes for patients.
According to the British Heart Foundation, around one in five individuals over the age of 60 are affected by peripheral artery disease, a condition also prevalent in over 10 million Americans aged 40 and above.
The failure to address this condition has resulted in a 50% increase in mortality rates among affected individuals, with the study further revealing disparities in the provision of guideline-directed medical therapy, notably less for women compared to men.
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Characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries supplying the limbs, peripheral artery disease, when affecting the heart, is termed as coronary heart disease.
Difficulty in diagnosing this condition stems from its elusive symptoms, and the study noted that cardiologists often prioritize stroke prevention and general heart disease treatment over specific examination for peripheral artery disease.
Intermittent claudication, a unique symptom where pain manifests during walking or exercising but subsides after resting, is a common indicator of peripheral artery disease. Other symptoms include poor circulation signs and the potential development of severe complications such as gangrene and limb amputation.
While a cure for peripheral artery disease is unavailable, a combination of lifestyle modifications, medication, and, in certain cases, surgery can mitigate its progression, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients.
The study’s primary investigator emphasized the urgent need to identify and treat this condition, highlighting the critical lack of optimal care for both men and women with peripheral artery disease.
Presented at the American College of Cardiology’s annual scientific sessions conference, the study’s findings shed light on the pressing issue of underdiagnosed and untreated peripheral artery disease.