Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) is celebrating Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month this September by offering free community screenings at various locations throughout the month to expand access to early detection and increase awareness of the disease.
Symptoms of PAD include painful cramping in the legs during exercise or movement, numbness or coldness in the legs or feet, sores on the toes, feet, or legs that do not heal, discoloration of the legs or feet, slower hair growth on the feet or lower legs, slower toenail growth, and a weak or absent pulse in the legs or feet.
Current or former smokers and people with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a personal or family history of cardiovascular disease are at increased risk for PAD. However, even people without these risk factors can still develop the disease.
Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) in Prairieville, located at 37292 Market Place Drive, Suite A, is offering a free vascular screening event open to the public on Sept. 8, 2026, from 4 p.m.–6 p.m.
Attendees will receive complimentary ABI screenings, which measures blood flow in the legs and helps to diagnose peripheral artery disease. Screening results will be reviewed on-site by Shashi Gavini, MD, and NP Chris Alexander.
Those interested can register online at https://CISPRPADSept8.eventbrite.com or by calling (985) 873-5688.
In addition, CIS is offering free PAD screenings across our clinics to save limbs and lives. To find an upcoming screening near you, visit www.cardio.com/event/. To schedule an appointment, visit www.cardio.com.