PAD in women: the ischemic continuum.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Vascular Surgery
• Public Health

Background:

• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a manifestation of systemic atherosclerotic vascular disease.
• PAD significantly increases risks for myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular mortality.
• Women with PAD exhibit distinct clinical presentations and poorer health outcomes compared to men.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight sex-based disparities in lower extremity PAD.
• To emphasize the importance of timely diagnosis and management for women with PAD.
• To improve cardiovascular outcomes and quality of life for women affected by PAD.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of current literature on PAD in women.
• Analysis of clinical presentation differences between sexes.
• Evaluation of outcomes associated with PAD in women versus men.

Main Results:

• Women with PAD are more prone to asymptomatic or atypical presentations.
• PAD in women is linked to reduced exercise capacity, diminished quality of life, and increased depression.
• Women with PAD face a higher risk of acute cardiovascular events and mortality compared to men.

Conclusions:

• Addressing sex-based disparities in PAD diagnosis and management is critical.
• Prompt diagnosis allows for risk factor modification and appropriate revascularization referrals.
• Improving PAD care for women can lead to better functional status and reduced mortality.