Peripheral arterial disease affects approximately 6% of adults globally[1] and is characterized by atherosclerosis (a build-up of fatty plaques in arteries) causing a narrowing or blockage of arteries supplying blood to the limbs, usually the lower limbs.[2][3] Peripheral arterial disease lowers a person’s quality of life (due to pain and poor mobility), increases their risk of requiring a lower limb amputation, and raises their risk of dying from coronary heart disease.[2][3]
What is peripheral arterial disease?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) affects approximately 6% of adults worldwide and is caused by atherosclerosis, which leads to narrowed or blocked arteries in the limbs, primarily the lower limbs. PAD can significantly reduce quality of life, increase the risk of lower limb amputation, and elevate the risk of death from coronary heart disease.