Professional Practice Guide -FCSV-EN

10 Professional Practice Guide 2.3 LIFESTYLE HABITS AND RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH PAD The physician should discuss lifestyle habits with the patient and warn them about risk factors associated with this disease. The most important element in PAD management is to begin or continue physical activity according to the patient’s level of tolerance. Walking until the onset of symptoms helps train the heart muscle to function more efficiently and promotes improved circulation. Smoking cessation Tobacco use is considered the most important risk factor in peripheral vascular disease. Nicotine and other substances found in cigarettes contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, which leads to narrowing the arterial lumen and reduced blood flow. In fact, up to 80% of patients with PAD are current or former smokers.² Sedentary lifestyle Patients should be encouraged to move more and reduce the amount of time spent sitting. Physical inactivity combined with poor dietary habits is a major contributor to serious health conditions (discussed in more detail in Section 4 of this Guide).  Increased waist circumference An increased waist circumference may result from genetic predisposition or environmental factors, but most often it results from the combined influence of multiple contributing factors. Weight loss often requires individuals living with obesity to seek medical support and modify several aspects of their lifestyle.  Type 1 and type 2 diabetes Patients living with both diabetes and PAD have an amputation rate five times higher than patients with PAD without diabetes.³ 2. What Is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)? Milligrams (mg) of salt per serving % of salt per serving High > 360 ≥ 15% Monitor 121-360 6% - 14% No concern 0-120 0% - 5% Ӌ FIGURE 1. Ӌ DAILY SALT INTAKE Source: Hypertension Canada To help lower blood pressure, try to limit salt intake to approximately 2,000 mg per day.