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A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop peripheral artery disease with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing peripheral artery disease. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.
Certain Medical Conditions
Your risk of peripheral artery disease increases if you have one or more of the following medical conditions:
Treating these conditions early and effectively greatly reduces the progression of atherosclerosis.
Lifestyle Factors
The following lifestyle factors can increase your risk of developing peripheral artery disease:
Age
Peripheral artery disease is a progressive condition. Symptoms usually develop after age 40 in men and age 50 in women, but may occur earlier.
Gender
Men tend to develop peripheral artery disease earlier than women, beginning about age 40.
Women often develop the condition a decade after menopause. Estrogen appears to be protective during a woman’s childbearing years.
Family history
Your risk of developing PAD increases if you have a family history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or PAD itself.
References:
American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/ . Accessed August 14, 2008.
Braunwald E, Fauci AS, eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine . 16th ed. McGraw-Hill Professional; 2004.
Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 2nd ed. W.B. Saunders; 2003.
Last reviewed July 2008 by Michael J. Fucci, DO
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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