The PAD Collaborative has introduced an interactive online heat map to underscore the risk of non-traumatic lower limb amputations, a serious complication of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This new tool is designed to help prevent PAD, reduce complications, and improve the quality of life for those affected, offering state-specific data. Statistics reveal a critical need for improved health care services, screening, and education in many areas of the U.S. for those at risk or affected by PAD, as well as for the health professionals caring for them.
Peripheral Artery Disease is characterized by plaque buildup in the peripheral arteries, reducing blood flow to the legs and feet. Affecting over 10-12 million people in the U.S., PAD is notably prevalent among Black adults, who are twice as likely to develop the condition. The American Heart Association indicates that individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or those who smoke are at higher risk for PAD, which can lead to amputations if not managed. Annually, 150,000 non-traumatic leg amputations occur in the U.S.
The Non-Traumatic Lower Extremity Amputations by Congressional District Heat Map uses 2017 and 2018 data from Medicare and the U.S. Census Bureau to show relative rates of lower limb amputation geographically and by U.S. Congressional district. High-risk states include Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and South Carolina, with Mississippi having the highest risk.
Systemic barriers place those in rural areas, as well as Black, Native American, and low socioeconomic status populations, at the greatest risk of amputation. Leading experts in PAD stress that screening and management are vital for preventing amputations, along with enhanced care systems, research, and health policies.
“Increasing knowledge surrounding peripheral artery disease and the potential complication of lower limb amputation is vital, especially considering many people who are at high risk don’t even know what PAD is,” said Marc Bonaca, M.D., M.P.H, a cardiologist and vascular medicine specialist at CPC Clinical Research and CPC Community Health. Dr. Bonaca is currently the Center Director and Clinical Project Principal Investigator of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dartmouth Hitchcock Center in the American Heart Association Strategically Focused Research Network in Peripheral Vascular Disease.
The lower limb amputation heat map will serve as a tool for healthcare professionals to become aware of the amputation data in their region. This information can be crucial when considering the need for patient and staff education, health programs, community screenings, and outreach concerning research and advocacy.
“Much of the amputation data we are seeing is not surprising, yet the map helps us confirm and illustrate what we suspected in terms of where the biggest issues are,” said Bonaca. “When patients with PAD and their health teams advocate for themselves, we can share a firm message that this is a public health issue, and it is preventable.”
Member organizations across the country have joined forces in the PAD Collaborative, working together to advance the goals of the PAD National Action Plan. This plan aims to reduce the burden of peripheral artery disease through increased public awareness, improved detection and treatment, focused research, extensive public education, enhanced public health strategies, and strong advocacy efforts.
