Save-A-Life Screenings

By Advanced Imaging Services







        Stroke                                        PVD                               

Carotid artery disease typically occurs when the carotid arteries, the main blood vessels to the brain, develop a buildup of plaque caused by atherosclerosis, or a hardening of the arteries. When the buildup becomes severe, it can cause a stroke. Carotid disease can produce a stroke, which can be fatal or permanently disabling.  Educating people to understand that if carotid artery disease is detected and treated, strokes can be prevented.

Are You at Risk for a Stroke?

  • Do you have high blood pressure or do you take medication for high blood pressure?
  • Do you smoke or have a long history of smoking?
  • Do you have an irregular heartbeat?
  • Do you have high cholesterol or do you take medication for high cholesterol?
  • Is there an immediate family history of stroke or heart disease? (mother, father, siblings, children)
  • Do you exercise less than three times per week for 20-30 minutes at a time?
  • Do you eat a diet high in saturated and/or animal fat?
  • Are you over 55 years of age?
  • Are you male?

If you have checked Yes for two (2) or more of the above risk factors, you may be a candidate for a Stroke/Carotid Artery Screening and/or a Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening. 

PVD (peripheral vascular disease) is a blockage in the circulation to the arms or legs due to atherosclerois or other diseases, which may threaten the limbs. PVD can impair circulation to the legs and lead to serious disability or amputation. Between 25 and 30 million people over 70 have PVD. These people are three times as likely to die of heart attacks and strokes as those without the disease.

Are You at Risk for PVD?


PVD is more common among those over 50 and affects from 12 to 20 percent of those age 65 and older. The population in south central Texas counties has a high incidence of the conditions that make people susceptible to PVD, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Here’s how to determine if you are at risk for PVD:
  • Do you smoke?
  • Do you have cardiovascular (heart) problems such as high blood pressure, heart attack or stroke?
  • Do you have high cholesterol?
  • Do you have a family history of diabetes or cardiovascular problems (immediate family such as parent, sister, brother)?
  • Do you have diabetes?
  • Are you more than 25 pounds overweight?
  • Do you have an inactive lifestyle?
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