About Vascular Disease Awareness Month

DESCRIPTION:

VASCULAR DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH: SHEDDING LIGHT ON A SILENT THREAT

As September rolls in, healthcare professionals and organizations across the nation gear up to observe Vascular Disease Awareness Month, an initiative to raise awareness about vascular diseases and their impact on millions of Americans. Spearheaded by the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS), medical institutions, and patient advocacy groups, this month-long campaign emphasizes the importance of early detection, prevention, and management of vascular diseases.

Vascular disease is an envelope term for any condition that affects the network of blood vessels in the body, including arteries, veins, and capillaries. This broad category encompasses conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), aneurysms, varicose veins, and blood clots. If left untreated, vascular diseases can lead to severe complications like heart attacks, strokes, and limb amputations.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

People can develop vascular disease due to genetic and lifestyle factors. Common risk factors include:

Age—The risk increases with age.

Smoking—A major contributor to arterial damage.

Diabetes—Elevated blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels.

High Blood Pressure—Strains the vascular system.

High Cholesterol—Leads to plaque buildup in arteries.

Obesity—Contributes to hypertension and diabetes, increasing vascular disease risk.

Sedentary Lifestyle—Lack of physical activity can exacerbate other risk factors.

IS THERE A CURE

While there is no definative cure for vascular diseases, many forms can be managed or mitigated through medical treatments and lifestyle changes. Early detection and intervention are crucial. Treatments may include medication to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels and surgical procedures to repair or bypass damaged blood vessels.

PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Public health messages during Vascular Disease Awareness Month stress the importance of a heart-healthy lifestyle. Key recommendations include:

Regular Exercise—Helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces blood pressure.

Balanced Diet—Emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Smoking Cessation—Reducing the risk of vascular and other diseases.

Routine Health Screenings—Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.

Vascular Disease Awareness Month aims to reduce the incidence and impact of these potentially debilitating conditions by fostering awareness and encouraging proactive health measures. The SVS and its partners urge everyone to take steps toward healthier living and seek medical advice if they have concerns about their vascular health.