GPs should make an early diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) by performing an ankle brachial pressure index measurement, as NICE sets out new guidelines on the diagnosis and management of lower limb PAD.

Peripheral arterial disease is a common condition, affecting 3% to 7% of people in the general population and 20% of people over the age of 60, in which the arteries carrying blood to the legs and feet become narrowed or blocked.

Despite the relatively high incidence of PAD, recognition and treatment of the disease varies across England.

The latest recommendations aim to resolve the considerable uncertainty and variations in practice and improve outcomes for patients