The impact of gender on differences in the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease: the staggering effects of social determinants seen highest in women

Abstract

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a clinical manifestation of atherosclerosis, affecting primarily the peripheral vasculature in the lower extremities. In its terminal form, PAD can result in critical limb ischemia with subsequent amputation if inappropriately managed. As the prevalence of PAD continues to rise in the United States, disparities in its incidence and treatment have become a major focus point of cardiovascular research. However, most research efforts thus far have focused on the presentation and treatment of PAD in men. Given that women appear to be just as affected by PAD as men, more emphasis is needed on understanding the disparities and challenges affecting women with PAD. This paper aims to identify disparities in the treatment of PAD between males and females, with a closer look at gender disparities between Hispanic and non-Hispanic patients.   Keywords: Peripheral arterial disease, women, Hispanics, disparities