Sept. 1, 2024 — September is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month, a time to educate and empower people to act against the most debilitating disease they haven’t heard of — or know that they have.
PAD affects more than 10 million Americans and is a factor in 400 amputations each day, making it the largest cause of nontraumatic amputations in the United States. Yet among Black and Hispanic adults, nearly 80 percent report never having a doctor or healthcare provider discuss PAD with them. PAD Awareness Month is the time to "kick off the conversation" and change that.
The PAD Pulse Alliance, a coalition of four leading medical societies dedicated to improving vascular health, has developed PADPulse.org, an online portal that offers a wealth of resources for patients and caregivers. These include an interactive patient toolkit, links to find a physician, and animated videos that help explain PAD.
The PAD Pulse Alliance includes the Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC), the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI), the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR), and the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS). Together, they represent over 20,000 physicians and health professionals and a wealth of expertise in treating PAD. Launched earlier this year, the Get a Pulse on PAD campaign has reached millions through social media, digital influencers, and media outreach to spread the word and engage with the public.
“PAD is not merely a cardiovascular issue; it is a public health crisis that quietly drives unnecessary amputations, causes disabling generational impairment, and claims lives — especially among Black and Hispanic populations. We are dedicated to closing the gaps in awareness and care, ensuring that everyone, regardless of race or background, is equipped with the knowledge and resources to safeguard their health. This month, and every month, we must elevate the dialogue about PAD, empower our communities with essential information, and advocate for equitable access to life-saving care,” said Dr. Foluso Fakorede, MD, CEO of Cardiovascular Solutions of Central Mississippi and co-chair of the Association of Black Cardiologists PAD Initiative.
The PAD Pulse Alliance invites everyone to join the campaign and help spread the word about PAD, especially during PAD Awareness Month. For more information, visit www.PADPulse.org or follow the campaign on social media using #PulseonPAD.
September 16, 2024 
