Left untreated, PAD can lead to amputation

Smoking can make PAD worse

Of all the risk factors for peripheral artery disease (PAD), smoking is considered the most powerful predictor of PAD.37 Smoking is known to damage your heart and lungs, and the lives of patients with PAD who also have cardiovascular problems could be at greater risk.28

Smoking also is an important risk factor for the development of plaque in your arteries (atherosclerosis)19 — a leading cause of PAD, heart attack and stroke. Plus, aging plays a role in raising a smoker’s risk for PAD.13

Don’t delay. If you are a smoker, talk to your health care professional about your risk level for PAD and about treatment options, if you do have the disease. Also talk about treatment options to help you stop smoking.

You can use our Find a Doctor tool to locate a PAD specialist near you.

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THE GOOD NEWS: There are many TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR PAD. So don’t wait. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor now.