Interactive Map Exposes High PAD Amputation Risks, Calls for Improved Healthcare Measures

The PAD Collaborative has introduced an interactive online heat map to underscore the risks of non-traumatic lower limb amputations, a severe consequence of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This innovative tool, designed to prevent PAD and improve quality of life for those affected, provides state-specific data on amputation risks. It highlights a critical need for enhanced healthcare services, screening, and education for individuals at risk or affected by PAD, as well as for the healthcare professionals who care for them.

Peripheral Artery Disease, caused by plaque buildup in peripheral arteries, typically affects the legs and feet and impacts more than 10-12 million people in the U.S. Black adults are twice as likely to develop PAD. Those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or who smoke are at higher risk, potentially leading to amputations if not managed properly. Annually, 150,000 non-traumatic leg amputations occur in the U.S.

The Non-Traumatic Lower Extremity Amputations by Congressional District Heat Map utilizes publicly available data from Medicare and the U.S. Census Bureau from 2017 and 2018, detailing amputation rates geographically and by U.S. Congressional district. High-risk states include Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and South Carolina, with Mississippi facing the highest risk.

Systemic barriers place those in rural areas and Black, Native American, and low socioeconomic status populations at the greatest risk of amputation. According to PAD experts, screening and management are crucial in preventing amputations, along with improved care systems, research, and health policies.

“Increasing knowledge surrounding peripheral artery disease and the potential complication of lower limb amputation is vital, especially considering many people who are at high risk don’t even know what PAD is,” stated Marc Bonaca, M.D., M.P.H, cardiologist and vascular medicine specialist.

The heat map will be a key tool for healthcare professionals to understand regional amputation data, aiding in the planning of patient and staff education, health programs, community screenings, and outreach concerning research and advocacy.

“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,” Bonaca added. “When patients with PAD and their health teams advocate for themselves, we can share a firm message that this is a public health issue, and it is preventable.”

Member organizations across the country have united in the PAD Collaborative to advance the goals of the PAD National Action Plan. This plan aims to reduce the burden of PAD through public awareness, detection and treatment, research, education, public health, and advocacy.