A recent analysis published by The Sage Group concluded that over 14 million South Americans have peripheral arterial disease. According to the report, this reflects the aging population. The number is projected to exceed 23 million by 2030.
Critical limb ischaemia, afflicts 1.3 million South Americans, it was stated in a press release. By 2030 that number is forecast to grow to 2.5 million.
“The number of South Americans with peripheral arterial disease is only moderately less than the 17.6 million afflicted in the USA,” stated Mary L Yost, president of The Sage Group. “This reflects the high and growing prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors such as hypertension, elevated cholesterol, obesity and particularly diabetes. In addition, the South American continent is aging.”
“Age and diabetes are two significant risk factors for peripheral arterial disease,” Yost explained. “In diabetics ages 50 and older, 30% to 40% suffer from peripheral arterial disease whereas in those with normal glucose, 10% to 20% have the disease.”
According to the report, the largest numbers of citizens suffering from peripheral arterial disease are located in Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. These three countries account for 76% of peripheral arterial disease and 79% of critical limb ischaemia prevalence in South America.
