Early Identification of Asymptomatic Peripheral Arterial Disease in Smokers

• Ankle brachial pressure index readings in smokers could be falsely elevated because of arterial calcification.
• When ankle brachial pressure index readings and spectral waveforms are not consistent, further evaluation of peripheral perfusion should be performed.
• This would ensure an early and accurate diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease.

This study investigated whether daily tobacco smoking affects peripheral artery insufficiency in a cohort of middle-aged individuals. A matched nonexperimental study was used. Twenty smokers and 20 nonsmokers not suffering from any cardiovascular disease were recruited. The Huntleigh Dopplex Assist was used to measure the ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) and quantitatively analyze the Doppler arterial waveforms. There was no significant difference in mean ABPI scores between smokers and nonsmokers; however, significant difference was noted in the Doppler waveforms on all arteries assessed between groups. Doppler waveforms should be used to assess smokers to screen for peripheral arterial disease.