Unmasking the silent threat: Prevalence of peripheral artery disease among patients of Indian descent during cardiovascular screenings

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-28-2026

Publication Title

Jvs Vascular Insights

Abstract

Objective: Individuals of Indian (IA) descent are broadly categorized as “Asian,” a group historically associated with lower cardiovascular (CV) risk. Emerging evidence suggests heterogeneity in CV disease risk among Asian subgroups. This study evaluates peripheral artery disease (PAD) prevalence and risk factors among IA participants screened at Comprehensive Heart and Multidisciplinary Limb Preservation Outreach Networks (CHAMPIONS) programs. Methods: Between 2022 and 2025, providers conducted screenings and delivered education on PAD and its risk factors at CHAMPIONS events. Demographic data and CV risk factors were collected. Individuals were categorized by self-reported race and ethnicity, with specific attention to those identifying as of IA descent. Comparative analysis was performed. Results: A total of 624 participants (190 IA and 438 non-IA) were screened, with a mean age of 50 ± 17 years and 47% male. IA participants were more likely to have diabetes (P = .02), hyperlipidemia (P = .006), and hypertension (P = .047). IA participants more commonly reported a family history of vascular disease (P < .001) and were found at risk for PAD (P < .001), compared with non-IA participants. On subgroup analysis of participants of Asian descent, compared with non-IA Asian ethnicities, IA participants were older (55 vs 45 years, P = .001), more commonly reported a family history of vascular disease (23% vs 18%, P = .001), and had higher PAD risk (62% vs 46%, P = .032). Conclusions: Individuals of Indian descent screened at CHAMPIONS events were more likely to meet guideline-based criteria for being at risk for PAD, driven by a higher prevalence of established CV risk factors, including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and stronger hereditary disposition. Although confirmed PAD prevalence based on ankle brachial index/toe brachial index was not higher in this group, these findings highlight a distinct CV risk profile and underscore the importance of early risk identification and targeted prevention strategies in the population with elevated CV risk.

Volume

4

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS