Awareness Week 2011

Thank you to all who took part in Vascular Disease Awareness Week which ran between the 7th – 13th March 2011.

The week, entitled 'Are Your Legs Killing You?" aimed to increase awareness of the dangers of vascular disease in particular peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Across the UK events were held at public venues and health centres.  Vascular nurse specialists were on hand to offer advice and information on vascular disease to members of the general public, especially to those with diabetes.  The emphasis was on the need for early diagnosis and referral.

Vascular disease affects 4 million people each year in the UK, but many people aren’t aware of the it, and too often, vascular illnesses are left untreated and the effects can be irreversible.

Vascular disease affects a wide range of people, from those with diabetes to the elderly, or individuals with inherited genetic conditions.

It is treated both medically and surgically - and through important lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular exercise and no smoking.

If left untreated, 75% of people with Peripheral Arterial Disease will die from a sudden heart attack or stroke.

Vascular Disease Awareness Week seeks to change that. 

To promote awareness on the risks of vascular disease, the Circulation Foundation has a new risk checker tool to help people identify their risk and get the information they need.

Patron of the Circulation Foundation, Roger Moore:

“vascular disease can often go undiagnosed and people may be unaware of the potential consequences of the condition.  I urge you all to get involved with your vascular health; know your risk and stay in circulation!”

The Circulation Foundation champions the prevention and treatment of all vascular diseases.  We are the only charity that deals specifically with the vascular system and vascular disease as a whole.  Please help us to continue our work by making a donation.