Vascular disease

·         On August 5, 2008 Vascular Society of India put that almost 4.2 cr Indians suffer from vascular problems that could require amputation of legs if not treated on time

·         According to the report, presented at a conference organised by the Society on the occasion of Vascular Awareness Day , lack of awareness not only among the patients, but within the medical fraternity, has led to a number of amputations and disfigurement of limbs for a disease that can be easily treated in the early stages with medication and lifestyle modification programmes.

·         Peripheral vascular disease mostly affects the legs symptomised by pain in the calves while walking.

·         This can progress to the toes even at rest and can result in gangrene of the toes and foot.

·         It is well established now that decreased blood flow in the legs is the biggest indicator of future heart attacks and strokes. A patient, who has blocked arteries of the leg, indicates 60-70 per cent chance of diffuse vascular disease

·         Though the exact magnitude of peripheral arterial disease of the legs is not known, awareness among high risk groups and the general population could lower chances of future complications like heart attacks and strokes.