Imagine walking down Republic Street in Valletta, the sun warming your face, but your legs feeling like they’re on fire. This isn’t just a case of overexertion; it’s a symptom of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), a condition that’s more common than you might think. Today, we’re rolling up our sleeves and diving into Malta’s battle against this silent killer.

PAD is a circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs, most commonly the legs. It’s caused by fatty deposits building up in the arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. The symptoms range from leg pain and fatigue to critical limb ischemia, where the lack of blood flow can lead to tissue death and even amputation.

Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are all risk factors for PAD. In Malta, where heart disease is the second leading cause of death, it’s a problem that’s close to home. According to the Ministry of Health, around 20% of people over 55 have PAD, with men being more affected than women.

Dr. Joseph Cuschieri, a renowned vascular surgeon at St. Luke’s Hospital, explains, “PAD often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms can be mild or mistaken for other conditions. But early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications.”

Diagnosis typically involves an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, where blood pressure is measured in the arms and legs. A low ABI indicates narrowed arteries. Other tests include Doppler ultrasound, angiography, and MRI.

Treatment for PAD varies depending on the severity of the condition. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, exercising, and eating a healthy diet, are the first line of defense. Medications like statins, antiplatelet drugs, and cilostazol can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

For more severe cases, procedures like angioplasty, stenting, and bypass surgery may be necessary. Dr. Cuschieri notes, “We’ve made great strides in Malta. We now perform endovascular procedures, which are less invasive than traditional surgery, right here on the island.”

Preventing PAD is possible. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, managing chronic conditions, and avoiding smoking can all help keep your arteries clear. The Malta Diabetes and Vascular Disease Institute offers free screening for PAD, making it easier than ever to stay on top of your health.

Remember, PAD isn’t just about leg pain. It’s a warning sign that your heart and blood vessels are at risk. Don’t ignore the symptoms. Take the first step towards better health today.