Though many people think of injuries or accidents when they think of amputations, more than half result from complications of cardiovascular issues. One major culprit is peripheral artery disease (PAD), a recurring build-up of plaque in the arteries that limits blood flow to the legs and feet. If not identified and managed properly, PAD can lead to leg, foot or toe amputations. Louisianians have nearly the highest risk in the U.S. when it comes to these life-altering complications. Having diabetes increases a person’s risk of PAD, as does smoking and having high blood pressure. Over 14% of people in Louisiana have diagnosed diabetes, and it’s estimated that over 110,000 people have diabetes but don’t know it. Learn more about peripheral artery disease.