Peripheral Vascular Disease.

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a leading health concern in the United States, with an estimated prevalence of 8.5 million. The incidence of PVD is growing due to increasing rates of obesity and diabetes, as well as an aging population. Peripheral vascular disease is categorized as either venous, arterial, or mixed. A differential assessment is essential to identify the type of PVD and to plan management strategies to prevent further vascular dysfunction. This article describes assessment of patients with PVD, risk factors, treatments, and patient education.