Kochi, September 1, 2025: As September marks Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Awareness Month, medical experts are urging the public to recognize the often-overlooked condition that poses serious risks to both limbs and overall health.
Dr. Manisha Joshi, Senior Consultant – Interventional & Neuro Radiology at Rajagiri Hospital, Kochi, explained that PAD occurs when peripheral arteries, most commonly those supplying the legs, become blocked. “PAD is not only a threat to our legs but also to overall health. It is closely linked with arterial blockages in the heart and brain,” she said, warning that many patients lose their legs due to critical limb ischemia, a severe form of the disease.
A Growing Health Burden
PAD is increasingly prevalent with the world’s aging population. Beyond the physical consequences, it brings heavy psychological and financial strain on families. Despite its impact, public awareness remains worryingly low.
“Timely diagnosis and treatment can save many legs, lives, and families. Yet, lack of awareness delays detection and care,” Dr. Joshi emphasized.
Causes and Symptoms
The leading causes of PAD include diabetes mellitus and tobacco use, followed by hypertension, high cholesterol, and certain connective tissue disorders. Reduced blood flow to the legs deprives muscles of oxygen and nutrients, leading to:
Early symptoms: Calf pain during walking that eases with rest.
Advanced symptoms: Pain at rest disrupting sleep, ulcers, non-healing wounds, or gangrene that may lead to amputation.
In some cases, PAD remains hidden until a foot injury or infection refuses to heal.
Prevention and Care
Dr. Joshi urged those with walking pain, rest pain, gangrene, or non-healing wounds to seek immediate medical attention. Preventive steps include:
Strict diabetes control
Quitting tobacco
Adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise
Practicing proper foot care
Treatment Advances
While early-stage PAD can often be managed with lifestyle changes, exercise, and medication, advanced cases may require medical intervention. Endovascular techniques such as angioplasty and stenting have emerged as effective solutions.
“These minimally invasive procedures require no general anesthesia or stitches, cause minimal pain, and allow patients to walk home soon after treatment,” Dr. Joshi noted. With modern advancements, more limbs can be saved from amputation than ever before.
A Call to Action
“As vascular specialists, we see daily how timely treatment saves legs and lives—and how delays can cost both,” Dr. Joshi said. “This PAD Awareness Month, let’s pledge to prioritize prevention, early detection, and timely treatment to protect countless families from avoidable suffering.”
