Every year in September, Vascular Disease Awareness Month brings vital attention to health conditions affecting the body’s arteries, veins, and blood vessels. It highlights issues like peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), aneurysms, varicose veins, and blood clots. Across communities worldwide, governments, medical professionals, and individuals unite to promote awareness, prevention, early detection, and treatment.
What is Vascular Disease Awareness Month?
This annual campaign aims to educate people about vascular health and empower them to take action. It focuses on common yet often underdiagnosed conditions like PAD, which affects millions globally and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and amputation. Throughout the month, healthcare groups and community organizations host seminars, screenings, fitness events, and online challenges to highlight the importance of vascular health.
When is Vascular Disease Awareness Month?
It is observed every September. In 2026, the month begins on Monday, September 1, and concludes on Tuesday, September 30. The campaign spans the full month to allow time for clinics, educators, and advocates to organise meaningful events and share targeted messaging.
Why Vascular Disease Awareness Month Matters
Vascular diseases are a leading cause of serious health problems—such as heart disease, stroke, limb loss, and chronic wounds—yet many people remain unaware of common warning signs like leg pain when walking, unexplained swelling, or non-healing ulcers. Awareness month encourages risk assessment, lifestyle changes, and symptom vigilance, helping communities reduce preventable complications and improve outcomes.
By spotlighting these diseases, the month promotes earlier diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and improved access to vascular health services. It plays a critical role in guiding public health priorities and saving lives.
How to Get Involved in Vascular Disease Awareness Month
- Attend a screening: Many hospitals and clinics offer free vascular health checks, including blood pressure, ankle–brachial index for PAD, and vein assessments.
- Join a walking, cycling, or swim challenge: Campaigns like #TheBodyWalk promote physical activity—a key prevention strategy.
- Host or attend educational events: Learn from vascular clinicians about symptoms, risk factors, and latest treatments.
- Share health information: On social media, local groups, or community centres, distribute infographics or stories to encourage others to take action.
- Talk to your doctor: If you experience leg pain, swelling, skin changes, or circulatory problems—especially if you smoke, have diabetes, or are over 50—request a vascular assessment.
History of Vascular Disease Awareness Month
The campaign began in 2007 when the Vascular Disease Foundation launched an initiative called “Stay in Circulation: Take Steps to Learn about PAD.” Over time, this effort expanded to include broader vascular conditions, with the introduction of online support groups in 2010 and public challenges like #TheBodyWalk in 2020. Today, it is widely recognised by international organisations, clinics, and health bodies each September.
Noteworthy Facts
- PAD affects an estimated 200 million people worldwide and often goes undiagnosed.
- Symptoms of PAD include leg pain or cramping when walking, skin colour changes, slow-healing sores, and reduced toenail growth.
- Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and age over 50.
- Evidence shows that consistent exercise, smoking cessation, blood pressure control, and healthy eating can slow vascular disease progression.
- Many people with vascular conditions experience no symptoms—early screening saves lives and limbs.
Hashtags
#VascularDiseaseAwarenessMonth, #KnowYourCirculation, #HealthyBloodVessels
Links
Related Events
March 1 - March 30
March 1 - March 30
March 1 - March 30
March 1 - March 30
