Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) often receive suboptimal treatment, leaving them at a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. A recent study published in the STRIDE trial found that many patients with PAD are not receiving guideline-recommended therapies, such as antiplatelet and lipid-lowering drugs.
The main reason for this underdiagnosis is a lack of awareness about PAD’s implications. Most patients and clinicians underestimate the risk of heart attack and stroke associated with PAD. Additionally, symptoms of PAD, such as intermittent claudication, are often dismissed as normal aging effects, leading to delayed detection and treatment.
To address this issue, researchers conducted a phase 3b trial using semaglutide, an anti-diabetic medication, to improve walking capacity in patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease and type 2 diabetes. The results showed a significant improvement in walking capacity among participants receiving semaglutide compared to those on placebo.
The findings of this study highlight the need for better awareness and treatment of PAD. Detecting PAD and providing risk-reducing therapies can significantly improve functional capacity and reduce cardiovascular outcomes in affected patients.
Source: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)00574-4/abstract