Management of peripheral arterial occlusive disease in resource-limited settings: A narrative review

Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) is a manifestation of systemic atherosclerosis associated with substantial morbidity, limb loss, and increased cardiovascular mortality. Its burden is rapidly increasing in lowand middle-income countries, where healthcare delivery is constrained by limited infrastructure, workforce shortages, and financial barriers. Patients in such settings frequently present late with advanced ischemia, reflecting gaps in awareness, screening, and access to timely care. This review synthesises current evidence on epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of PAOD, with a focus on pragmatic, cost-effective strategies suitable for resource-limited environments. Particular emphasis is placed on strengthening primary care, leveraging community-based interventions, and integrating telemedicine to improve outcomes.