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 Peripheral
Artery Disease occurs as the arteries in the legs narrow and harden
(atherosclerosis).
This serious disease is most commonly caused by plaque build-up
which can restrict blood flow and cause pain when walking. If left
untreated, PAD can cause gangrene and amputation. Additionally,
people with PAD are likely to have blocked arteries in other areas
of the body, making them 4-6 times more likely to die from Stroke
or Heart Attack.
PAD is a major public health threat
affecting 10-12 million Americans and requires greater screening
through the use of the Ankle-Brachial Index.
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