Peripheral Arterial Disease of the Legs
What Increases Your Risk
Many things can increase your risk for Reference atherosclerosis Opens New Window and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). These include:
- Smoking.
- High cholesterol.
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes. People with diabetes often have arterial disease that is both more severe and more widespread than in people who don't have diabetes.
- A family history of atherosclerosis or Reference coronary artery disease Opens New Window.
The risk for PAD also increases with age. About 1 out of 5 adults older than 55 have peripheral arterial disease (PAD).Reference 2
People who have the disease in one part of the body are likely to have it in other places, including the legs.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference May 17, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Reference David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery |
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