The PAD Collaborative has launched an online heat map to raise awareness of the risk of non-traumatic lower limb amputations, a serious complication of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This interactive tool provides state-specific data, aiming to help prevent PAD, reduce its complications, and improve the lives of those affected.
Peripheral artery disease occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, reducing blood flow, particularly to the legs and feet. It affects more than 10–12 million people in the U.S., with Black adults twice as likely to develop the condition compared to other groups.
PAD often leads to severe complications, including amputations, especially for individuals with underlying conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of smoking. Each year, around 150,000 non-traumatic leg amputations are performed in the U.S.
The heat map, created by the PAD Collaborative—led by the American Heart Association and comprising 17 organizations—uses data from Medicare and the U.S. Census Bureau (2017–2018).
It highlights areas with the highest risks of lower limb amputations, particularly in states like Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and South Carolina. Mississippi ranks as the state with the highest risk.
Systemic Challenges and Health Disparities
The data underscores the critical need for better healthcare services, screening, and education for people at risk of PAD, particularly in rural areas and among populations already facing systemic barriers. Groups at the greatest risk include Black and Native American communities and individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds.
The lack of awareness about PAD exacerbates the problem. “Many people who are at high risk don’t even know what PAD is,” said Dr. Marc Bonaca, a cardiologist and vascular medicine specialist. This knowledge gap makes it difficult for patients and healthcare providers to take preventive action or manage PAD effectively.
How the Heat Map Can Help
The heat map is intended as a resource for healthcare professionals to identify areas most in need of interventions. By visualizing the prevalence of lower limb amputations by state and U.S.
Congressional district, it can guide efforts to improve education, expand health programs, and promote community screenings. This tool also supports advocacy efforts for better policies, enhanced research, and improved care systems.
For patients, the heat map underscores the importance of screening and management. Preventing amputations involves early diagnosis and proper treatment, which may include medication, lifestyle changes, or procedures to restore blood flow.
Expert Insights and Call to Action
Dr. Bonaca, who is involved in PAD-focused research at the American Heart Association’s Strategically Focused Research Network, emphasized the urgency of addressing PAD as a public health issue.
“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,” he said. He also stressed the importance of advocacy from both patients and healthcare providers.
Efforts to reduce PAD-related amputations must include public awareness campaigns, better access to care, and policy changes that prioritize preventive measures. By using tools like the heat map, healthcare teams can target interventions more effectively and help reduce the burden of PAD and its complications.
Preventable, Treatable, Actionable
While PAD can lead to severe consequences, it is largely preventable and treatable with early intervention. The new heat map is a step toward tackling the disparities and systemic challenges that put millions of Americans at risk.
By raising awareness, improving education, and supporting health systems, the PAD Collaborative aims to reduce preventable amputations and improve outcomes for individuals living with PAD.
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