the words peripheral artery disease with the letters P, A, and D circled

Free PAD Screening | September 23, 11:00AM - 3:00PM at the Northeast Health Center 5329 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97211  PAD Screening Flyer (1.51 MB)

The Multnomah County REACH Program is working with Dr. Dave Griffin to offer free health screenings for PAD. If you meet the following criteria, we invite you to drop in for a free screening. No appointment is necessary and refreshments will be provided. 

  • Black or African
  • Age 65 and older
  • Age 50 to 64 with risk factors for atherosclerosis
  • Less than 50 with Type 2 diabetes and at least one other risk factor for atherosclerosis
  • Have a personal or family history of PAD, heart attack or stroke.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition where fatty deposits and calcium build up in the walls of the arteries. This condition can have serious complications when left untreated and result in the loss of limbs from amputation. Nearly 1 in 3 Black or African adults may develop PAD and are at higher risk of being diagnosed at an advanced stage. Routine testing for PAD is recommended. For more information on this condition, visit the CDC's website.

Risk Factors for PAD:

  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • High blood cholesterol
  • Atherosclerosis
  • Over 60

Symptoms

  • hair loss
  • Smooth, shiny skin that is cool to the touch
  • Pains, aches, and cramps
  • Sores or ulcers that don't heal
  • Leg pain during activity that gets better with rest

Preventing PAD

Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle can help prevent PAD and related conditions. This includes eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and making time for physical activity. Reducing and stopping other habits like smoking can also decrease the risk of developing PAD. Joining supervised or group exercise sessions can help keep you on track to reach your health goals. 

  • Engaging in physical activity
  • Maintaining a healthy diet
  • Quitting smoking