Peripheral artery disease can be difficult to diagnose. This disease is a narrowing of the arteries that carry blood from the heart to different parts of the body. This narrowing is caused by a buildup of plaque in your arteries. Recently, new research has revealed that high levels of a specific protein in your blood – cFAS – can indicate that you are at risk for PAD. Twelve million people in the United States suffer from PAD. Severe forms of the disease can even lead to amputation. In these cases, early detection can help patients begin treatment before such consequences occur. This cFAS protein can bond to LDL cholesterol, which is commonly tested for. If we can identify patients with high LDL and cFAS, we can ensure that more patients are treated early.
