UPDATE: New insights into the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases have just been revealed, highlighting urgent health concerns affecting millions. Experts emphasize the crucial distinction between cardiovascular and vascular health, focusing on how conditions in blood vessels can lead to severe complications.
Dr. Jake Forman, a vascular surgical specialist at WellSpan, stated, “A vascular surgeon is a blood vessel specialist… we take care of everything except for the heart and the brain.” This delineation is vital as many individuals remain unaware of the risks associated with vascular diseases, particularly Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), which affects arteries in the legs and can result in limb loss if not detected early.
Patients with heart disease are at increased risk for similar vascular issues. “It’s essential for individuals with heart blockages to be screened for vascular problems,” Dr. Forman stressed. The most common risk factors include high blood pressure, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking, which can severely impact vascular health.
The treatment landscape is evolving, with minimally invasive methods and robotic-assisted surgeries emerging as promising alternatives. “We just did our first couple of robotics cases for aortic pathology, which is the new frontier,” Dr. Forman noted. These advancements are not only enhancing surgical precision but also improving recovery times for patients.
In related news, nearly 100,000 checks totaling more than $22 million were issued in the Pennsylvania Money Match program, assisting residents in financial recovery. Meanwhile, in Clay Township, multiple roads were closed following a police chase that ended in a fiery crash.
As communities grapple with these developments, the need for public awareness on vascular health is critical. Officials urge everyone, particularly those with existing health conditions, to consult their primary care providers for screenings.
Stay tuned for more updates as these stories develop, and take action to protect your vascular health today.
