A Cross-Sectional Survey and Latent Class Analysis of Knowledge on Peripheral Arterial Disease in Hong Kong

Angel Lai, Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSAR
Guang-Ming Tan, Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSAR
Bryan P. Yan, Heart and Vascular Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSARFollow

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is prevalent and associated with significant cardiovascular (CV) mortality. However, it remains under-recognized, particularly in Asian countries. This study aims to assess awareness of PAD, its risk factors, and perceived consequences in relation to other CV diseases to inform strategies for improving clinical care.

METHODS: A total of 1,008 adults attending outpatient clinics at a university-affiliated tertiary hospital were recruited between January-August 2020 for a phone questionnaire. Differences between awareness groups were analysed by Pearson’s Chi-square test, predictors of PAD awareness were determined using multivariate logistic regression, and latent class analysis (LCA) was performed to identify subgroups.

RESULTS: Only 36.7% of participants were aware of PAD, substantially lower than awareness for diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular disease. Multivariate analysis identified the top predictors of PAD awareness as a prior PAD diagnosis (OR 7.94, 95% CI 3.79-17.9), history of stent or bypass procedures (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.68-3.40), and awareness of atrial fibrillation (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.46-3.45). Among PAD-aware patients, 84% associated the disease with walking difficulties, but only 50.0% acknowledged that PAD could be fatal. LCA identified four distinct subgroups; the largest (52.6% of the cohort) consisted of older, less-educated, and pre-atherosclerotic patients and exhibited the least awareness.

CONCLUSION: Our findings underscore a critical gap in PAD awareness in Hong Kong. The identified predictors and demographic subgroups highlight populations that could benefit from targeted educational interventions. Enhancing PAD awareness is essential for improving disease management and cardiovascular health outcomes.

Recommended Citation

Angel Lai, Guang-Ming Tan, Bryan P. Yan, A Cross-Sectional Survey and Latent Class Analysis of Knowledge on Peripheral Arterial Disease in Hong Kong Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology 2025;32(7) https://doi.org/10.55503/2790-6744.1575