THE PREVALENCE OF PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE IN NORMAL POPULATION VERSUS HIGH RISK INDIVIDUALS

Atherosclerosis is a systemic multifocal disorder of arterial system affecting coronary, cerebral and peripheral vessels. Compared to the highly acknowledged and publicised outcomes such as heart attacks and strokes, peripheral arterial disease [PAD] and its complications are less well recognized. Estimation of ankle brachial index [ABI] as an initial screening test in outpatient department [OPD] yields useful information about the frequency of this disease in the local population. Early detection of disease in normal and high risk asymptomatic population can result in more aggressive guidelines for preventive measures. The sample size of 200 participants aged 40-75 was identified. Among these, 100 belonged to control group with not more than one standard modifiable risk factor, not including diabetes mellitus [DM]. The other 100 participants were included if they had 2 or more standard modifiable risk factors or the presence of DM. ABI measurement was done in both groups by hand held Doppler Ultrasound. PAD was considered present if ABI was 0.9 or less. In the present study among control group, prevalence of PAD was 10% and in high risk asymptomatic group 13%. PAD is a prevalent atherosclerotic syndrome and is associated with a very high risk of myocardial infarction, stroke and death. In the absence of a national program of PAD education and detection many patients will not receive a diagnosis of PAD prior to the occurrence of a morbid or mortal ischaemic event. ABI measurement is the most efficient and objective approach for detecting the presence and severity of disease in primary care settings.