Peripheral Artery Disease

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a circulation problem in the leg. It is a narrowing of the peripheral arteries that carry blood away from the heart to other parts of the body. The most common type is lower-extremity PAD, in which blood flow is reduced to the legs and feet.
Woman in wheelchair with nurse

What You Should Know About PAD

This video explains that peripheral artery disease is a narrowing of the peripheral arteries that carry blood away from the heart to other parts of the body. Left untreated, it can lead to limb amputation, coronary artery disease, heart attack or stroke. 

PAD Personal Stories

Facing PAD can be a daunting task. You have every reason to be hopeful and positive about your outlook.

You’re in good company: hear from other patients sharing their experience with PAD.

Man sitting on gurney with prosthetic leg

Why PAD Matters

Left untreated, PAD can lead to limb amputation, coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke.
Close up of a doctor having an appointment with a patient with leg pain.

AHA's PAD Initiative

AHA is leading bold steps to transform the approach to PAD and save lives.

Support That Empowers

Recovery becomes so much more manageable when you have the right kind of emotional support. Our online community of patients, survivors and caregivers is here to keep you going no matter the obstacles. We’ve been there, and we won’t let you go it alone.
Interactive Cardiovascular Library Thumbnail image

Watch, Learn and Live

See detailed illustrations of PAD and how it affects your body.