PAD Risk Factors

What Are the Biggest Risk Factors for PAD?

Several well-established PAD risk factors may increase your chances of developing peripheral artery disease. The following are considered the most significant risk factors for PAD, especially for adults over 50:

Smoking: This is a significant modifiable contributor to PAD. Tobacco damages the arteries and accelerates the buildup of plaque.
Diabetes: High blood sugar weakens blood vessels, raising PAD risks two to four times.
High blood pressure (hypertension): This causes arterial damage and makes the heart work harder to circulate blood.
High cholesterol: Elevated LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque accumulation in the arteries.
Age 50+: Arterial stiffness and plaque buildup naturally increase with age.
Family history of vascular disease: Genetics can play a role in the development of PAD.
Obesity or inactive lifestyle: Reduced circulation and increased inflammation heighten overall vascular risk.
Chronic kidney disease: This impacts vascular function and accelerates arterial damage.

Understanding these risk factors helps patients recognize early warning signs and seek evaluation from a peripheral artery disease doctor before symptoms worsen.

A history of heart disease or stroke

Long-term exposure to environmental toxins

Inflammation due to autoimmune disorders

Poor diet, high in saturated fats or processed foods

Why Identifying PAD Risk Factors Early Matters

Early awareness and assessment can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications, including non-healing ulcers, infections and in advanced cases, limb-threatening ischemia. By understanding and addressing PAD risk factors, patients can:

Improve circulation.
Slow disease progression.
Improve overall mobility and quality of life.
Reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular events.

At Premier Health Group, we emphasize the importance of early detection as a critical component of vascular health, offering comprehensive diagnostic testing and evidence-based treatment plans.

How PAD Is Diagnosed

Common symptoms of PAD include cramping in the limbs, as well as leg numbness or coldness. If you are concerned you may have PAD, seeking an evaluation from a trained vascular specialist is essential.

A peripheral artery disease doctor may test for this disease using:

Ankle-brachial index (ABI).
Ultrasound imaging.
Advanced vascular studies.

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Expert PAD Evaluation at Premier Health Group

Premier Health Group offers a streamlined, compassionate and expert-driven experience. With bilingual services in English and Spanish, accessible locations and care directed by practicing vascular physicians — not business administrators — we ensure that every clinical decision is made with your long-term vascular health in mind.

Our specialists provide:

Rapid, accurate diagnosis of PAD disease.
Comprehensive follow-up care.
Personalized treatment recommendations.
Preventive strategies to reduce future vascular complications.

Take Control of Your Vascular Health Today

If you have one or more PAD risk factors, early evaluation is the most effective step you can take to protect your circulation and prevent complications. Premier Health Group’s vascular team is here to provide the expert guidance, advanced testing and evidence-based treatments you deserve.

Schedule an appointment today to discuss your risk factors and receive a personalized assessment from our experienced vascular specialists.