Medical management of risk factors for vascular disease

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a powerful marker of the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and myocardial infarction, even in asymptomatic patients. Correctable risk factors include smoking, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and obesity. Together with control of diabetes, antiplatelet therapy and exercise, treatment of these risk factors can significantly reduce risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.