Jun
2
Cigarette smoking and high cholesterol predict risk for some forms of peripheral artery disease
(PAD), while diabetes predicts risk for other forms of the disease, researchers reported in a rapid access issue of Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association. Researchers examined risk factors for PAD progression in large blood vessels (LV-PAD) and in small blood vessels (SV-PAD). PAD is characterized by clogged arteries outside the heart or brain - most often in the legs. An estimated 8 million people in the United States have PAD.
When large leg vessels are involved, the classic symptom is painful cramping in the hips, thighs or calves that occurs during exercise and eases after a few minutes of rest. With small vessels, the feet may be cool to the touch, heal slowly when injured, and in extreme cases require amputation.
Researchers identified several risk factors that influence the evolution of LV-PAD. Smoking appeared to be the most powerful predictor that PAD would get worse.
"Smoking cessation is the most efficient way to slow the progression of PAD, along with altering cholesterol levels through diet, exercise and medication," said study lead author Victor Aboyans, M.D., Ph.D. "By highlighting and focusing preventive efforts on the risk factors, we can improve the prognosis." Smoking, diabetes predict different forms of peripheral artery disease
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